argest privately held spirits company in the world, has commenced the search for a new head following the departure of president and chief executive officer Ed Shirley, who is retiring after a successful 36-year career. 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.During his tenure with Bacardi, Ed Shirley helped reignite the company’s global marketing with new campaigns for Bacardi rum, Dewar’s blended Scotch whisky, Grey Goose vodka and Martini vermouth and Italian sparkling wines. Also during his time with Bacardi, the company acquired one of the hottest new brands in the industry with the addition of St-Germain elderflower liqueur to the Bacardi portfolio of premium spirits.
The Bacardi brand portfolio comprises more than 200 brands and labels. Founded 152 years ago in Santiago de Cuba on February 4, 1862, family-owned Bacardi employs nearly 6,000 people, manufactures its brands at 27 facilities and sells in more than 150 countries.
