One of the top 5 FMCG companies, Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages has announced the appointment of Juan Pablo Rodriguez as its General Manager and Chief Executive Officer.
Juan Pablo Rodriguez will replace the current Chairman and CEO Neeraj Garg who will be retiring in 2022.
Juan is currently Chief Commercial Officer of Bottling Investments Group. In his role, he has led the team in achieving significant growth ambitions, transforming the channel strategy, and ensuring we continue to win in the market through capability-building and portfolio innovation.
The transition will begin in September this year, Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB) said in a statement.
Murat Ozgel, announcing Garg’s retirement said, “Throughout his career, Neeraj has brought to life his passion for people development by being an active mentor for talent across The Coca-Cola Company.”
“He has played a key role in championing strong end-to-end business management capabilities in teams and growing talent across markets. I would like to thank him for his contributions to the HCCB team over the last couple of years. He will leave behind a strong legacy,” Murat Ozgel added.
Murat Ozgel, President, Bottling Investments Group (BIG) of The Coca-Cola Company said, “Pablo joins the team as a seasoned leader with experience across developed and developing markets and extensive commercial experience.”
“I am confident that he will take the strong franchise that HCCB has built in the beverage space to even greater heights and capture the growth potential that India offers,” Murat Ozgel added.
Neeraj Garg said, “HCCB has built a strong business foundation in an economy that is already taking significant strides.”
“Its strength is not just its manufacturing capabilities and distribution footprint but also the focus on its people, sustainability, and community work. It is now on a mission to plant 25 lakh trees. I am so thankful to the stellar team that makes everything possible. It has been a privilege to lead this team,” he added.
Neeraj Garg took over the responsibility of HCCB in 2020. He has played a significant role in continuing the growth story of the company including delivering some of the best financial results ever.
