Carr becomes Bacardi North America president

Peter J Carr, 48, has been named regional president of Bacardi North America, with responsibility for leading all commercial operations in the region for its internationally-known portfolio of premium spirits. He replaces Robert Furniss-Roe, 50, who is leaving the company to pursue other opportunities, but remaining as an advisor to the global CEO for an extended period of time

In this role, Carr will be a member of the Bacardi Global LeadershipTeam reporting into Bacardi Limited CEO Michael J. Dolan. He will be based in Coral Gables, Florida. The appointment takes effect in September.

“Pete possesses an extraordinary mix of spirits, wine, beer and non-alcoholic beverage knowledge with a proven leadership track record of increasing profits in the marketplace,” said Mike Dolan. “Combined with his strong relationship and team-building skills and keen understanding of both the supplier and wholesale sides of the industry, I’m confident he will have a positive impact and drive results in our largest market.”

Carr has nearly 25 years of experience in the beverage industry, and was most recently Executive Vice President for privately held Glazer’s Distributors, one of the country’s largest distributors of wine, spirits and malt beverages. Prior to joining Glazer's, he held various senior management roles with Diageo including president of US spirits, president of sales for Diageo-Guinness USA, and president of Control States. Previously, Carr worked in the beverage industry and launched Red Bull in the US.  

“I am personally thrilled to be joining Bacardi with its exceptional portfolio of some of the best-selling and most iconic spirits in the industry. There are tremendous opportunities to grow the business and value in North America,” says Carr. “I look forward to working with the talented team at Bacardi, the top brands, in a culture of family values and ownership.”  

19 August 2014 - Felicity Murray The Drinks Report, editor