Bacardi Canada Inc. signals next phase of commercial growth with major executive shift
Bacardi Canada, Inc. has named Kevin Gouthro as its new managing director of Canada, effective immediately.
Gouthro succeeds Peter Starski, who has moved into a new role as senior director of performance management for Bacardi North America.
In his new capacity, Gouthro brings a strong background in commercial leadership to the position, having served with Bacardi Canada since 2018 following a 12-year career at PepsiCo.
In his new role, Gouthro leads overall market performance for Bacardi in Canada across all business functions. He will oversee the delivery of annual commercial and financial plans while strengthening ties with key commercial customers and distributor partners.
Gouthro will remain based in Toronto and reports to Jeff Branson, senior vice president of commercial for Bacardi North America.
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Strong Commercial Track Record
Gouthro brings more than 20 years of beverage industry experience to the role, including more than eight years with Bacardi.
"Kevin brings the market knowledge, customer focus, and leadership needed to build on the progress we’ve made in Canada and guide the business through its next chapter of growth," Branson said in a statement. "His appointment is a reflection of the strong talent we have across Bacardi and our commitment to developing leaders from within."
Gouthro joined Bacardi Canada in 2018 as a provincial sales manager in Calgary. He subsequently held progressive national sales roles, including director of customer strategy and national sales director, where he oversaw on-premise business. Prior to joining Bacardi, Gouthro spent 12 years at PepsiCo in senior sales and account management positions.
"Bacardi Canada has strong momentum, great brands, and important opportunities ahead," Gouthro said. "It is a privilege to lead this business, and I look forward to building on that progress with our team, customers, and partners."
Among Bacardi's ready-to-drink options are Bacardi Rum Punch, Bacardi Mojito, Bacardi Piña Colada, Bacardi Bahama Mama, Bacardi Limón & Lemonade and Bacardi Lime & Soda.
Originally from St. Albert, Alta., Gouthro holds a bachelor of commerce degree from the University of Alberta and also studied business at MacEwan University.
