TORONTO -- The board of directors of Cott Corp., the world's largest retailer brand soft drink provider, has announced the appointment of Jerry Fowden as chief executive officer. The appointment was effective on February 18.
"Jerry is the right person to lead Cott through the completion of our refocus plan and into the future," said David Gibbons, chairman. "He has a proven track record of success in turnaround situations over his 30 years of consumer packaged goods and beverage experience, and a clear vision of how to leverage Cott's strengths for a positive future. The [image-nocss] board's confidence in Jerry is based on his demonstrated leadership and contributions to our North American business where we continue to make excellent progress focusing on our private-label business opportunities and in strengthening our position with core retailer partners."
Fowden joined Cott in 2007 to lead Cott's U.K. business. In April of 2008, Fowden was appointed president of International, and in June of 2008 he was asked by David Gibbons to assist in rebuilding relationships with Cott's customers in the United States, while also taking on leadership of the Canadian business.
Prior to joining Cott, Fowden was CEO of Trader Media Group (TMG), a subsidiary of Guardian Media Group PLC in the U.K. In this role, he led the successful transition from a print-based media business to the most successful online classified media business in Europe. Fowden's beverage industry experience includes leadership in soft drink and beer companies around the globe. At AB-Inbev (formerly InBev), Fowden served in various positions including global COO, CEO of Bass Brewers and president of the European division. Prior to AB-Inbev, Fowden successfully led the turnaround of the Hero Group AG private-label soft drinks business in the U.K. Earlier in this career, Fowden worked in sales and marketing leadership positions at Mars Corp. and Pepsico.
"I see a strong and growing role for private label in the carbonated soft drinks category now and into the future. A well-run private-label program enhances retailer category profitability and significantly increases customer loyalty for retailers," said Fowden. "Cott has the privilege of partnering with the best retailers in the world to provide greater choice and enhanced value to consumers who are looking to stretch their shopping dollars. Our people are capable and energetic. We will maintain our high levels of product quality and customer service while we focus on improving cash flow by controlling costs and optimizing capital expenditures."
Gibbons will remain an active chairman and advisor as Cott continues to refocus its business and optimize its cost structure, Fowden added.
Toronto-based Cott markets or supplies more than 200 retailer and licensed brands and company-owned brands. Its products include carbonated soft drinks, sparkling and flavored waters, energy drinks, sports drinks, juices, juice drinks and smoothies, ready-to-drink teas and other noncarbonated beverages.
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