Coca-Cola HBC has today announced the appointment of Zoran Bogdanovic as the company’s new CEO with immediate effect.
He succeeds Dimitris Lois, who died in October, aged 56, having been chief executive of the European bottler since 2011.
Bogdanovic is currently a region director, responsible for operations in 12 countries and has been a member of Coca-Cola HBC’s operating committee since 2013.
He joined Coca-Cola HBC in 1996 and has held a number of senior leadership positions, including general manager of the company’s operations in Croatia, Switzerland and Greece.
At the company’s next general meeting of shareholders, Bogdanovic will be nominated as an executive director on the board of directors of Coca-Cola HBC.
Coca-Cola HBC chairman of the board of directors Anastassis David said: “Following a thorough process and benchmarking exercise, the board is delighted to announce Zoran’s appointment as chief executive officer.
“Zoran has a track record of delivering results in diverse markets across our territories. His ability to bring out the best in people and apply innovative thinking to new challenges make him the ideal choice to lead Coca-Cola HBC through its growth era.
“On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Michalis Imellos for his excellent stewardship of our business during the interim period.”
Coca-Cola HBC announced in September that Dimitris Lois was to take a leave of absence to undergo treatment for an undisclosed medical condition. Anastassis David said the company was ‘deeply saddened’ by his death.
Source: FoodBev
Danone has appointed Carla Hilhorst to the newly created position of senior vice president of research and innovation categories and zones, as the company looks to make science the heart of its business. Hilhorst, who brings over 30 years of experience in research and innovation, will report directly to Isabelle Esser, Danone’s chief research, innovation, quality and food safety officer.
The move, part of Pernod Ricard’s strategy to enhance its premiumisation efforts, will allow the company to focus more resources on its portfolio of premium international spirits and champagne brands that drive the growth of its business. This decision aligns with the company’s commitment to delivering sustainable value for shareholders, employees, clients and partners.
Schai – who is the current CEO of Swiss chocolate company Lindt & Sprüngli’s Australian operation – has previously worked with Aryzta from 2015-2018, where he served in roles including managing director for Asia Pacific and global strategic business lead (McDonald’s). The fast-food giant McDonald’s is one of Aryzta’s significant clients.
