Coca-Cola names Birmingham schoolboy as global boss
A FORMER Birmingham schoolboy has proven he is the real thing after being named as the next chief executive of Coca-Cola.
James Quincey, who went to the University of Liverpool after leaving King Edward’s School in Birmingham in 1983, will replace current boss Mujtar Kent, who will continue as chairman.
His appointment was welcomed by Warren Buffett, chairman of major Coca-Cola shareholder Berkshire Hathaway, who said: “I know James and like him, and believe the company has made a smart investment in its future with his selection.”
It is the culmination of a 20-year career with the global drinks giant which has seen him have senior roles in South America, Europe and at the company’s headquarters in Atlanta, USA, where he is currently chief operating officer. Mr Quincey will begin his new role on May 1.
Mr Quincey said: “I am truly honored and humbled to lead this great company into the future.
“Muhtar has been a catalyst for change at The Coca-Cola Company – driving the transformation of our global bottling system, expanding our product portfolio and making sustainability a business imperative.”
Former King Edward’s students, known as Old Edwardians, include Tony Hall, director-general of the BBC, West Midlands mayoral candidate Andy Street and authors Lee Child and Jonathan Coe.
