Madhavan takes over top spot at Bacardi

Bacardi’s Mahesh Madhavan has taken over from outgoing CEO Michael Dolan, and appointed two senior members of the team, including a new chief marketing officer.

Madhavan, the regional president of Asia, Middle East & Africa, who has been with the company for more than 20 years, was announced as Dolan’s successor in March, but he was not expected to take on the role until April 2018, following Dolan’s retirement.

However the company confirmed today that after a seven month transition, Madhavan would take on the role, as Dolan retired.

“With more than 20 years at Bacardi, in different roles in different geographies, Mahesh has a tremendous track record of success,” Facundo Bacardi, chairman of the family-owned company said.

“He inherits a business that is in great shape, with a healthy balance sheet, revitalized brands, and an engaged team of employees. Mike and Mahesh have worked closely to carry out the succession smoothly, and the Board is delighted with the progress they achieved,” he said.

It also announced the appointment of two new senior leaders who would support Madhavan.

John Burke, previously president of Incubation Brands, will take on the role of global chief marketing officer and president of Bacardi Global Brands Limited, a role previously led by Dolan, while Ignacio del Valle, is set to lead the commercial operations for the Latin America & Caribbean region, replacing Constantino Spas who is leaving the company.

“These internal appointments showcase our deep bench of seasoned talent and leadership within Bacardi and further demonstrates the company’s dedication to nurturing and growing our talented leaders,” Madhavan said.