ors of Bacardi Limited, the largest privately held spirits company in the world announced the departure of president and chief executive officer Ed Shirley. Mr. Shirley expressed his plans to retire after a 36-year career at the firm.An interim CEO will be announced shortly and will serve until a successor is appointed. Pending that announcement, the executive leadership team will report to Facundo L. Bacardi, the Company’s chairman, and a fifth-generation member of the Bacardi family.
“Ed leaves Bacardi a stronger organization from his dedication to the Company and its brands,” the company said in a statement. “We thank Ed for his commitment and passion to Bacardi and we all wish him well.”
Mr Shirley took the CEO’s job in March 2012 at the age of 55, after a 27-year career with Gillette, and a shorter stint with Procter & Gamble.
During his time with Bacardi, the company acquired St-Germain elderflower liqueur.
Bacardi added that Mr Shirley “helped reignite the company’s global marketing” with new campaigns for Bacardi rum, Dewar’s whisky, Grey Goose vodka and Martini vermouth and Italian sparkling wines.
The company also topped the rankings in The Bottom Line’s Top Ten Employers That Stand Out survey in 2012 under Mr Shirley’s leadership.
