The Coca-Cola Company has announced that Luisa Ortega will become president of its operations in Europe, effective 1st September. She will succeed Nikos Koumettis, who will be retiring in 2026 after a 25-year career with the soft drinks giant.
Ortega joined Coca-Cola in 2019 and currently serves as president of its Africa operating unit, leading a business that operates across 54 markets. She previously worked at SC Johnson for more than 14 years in various roles in Europe, the US, and Asia Pacific.
Koumettis has led the unit in Europe since it was created in 2021.
“Luisa has done an outstanding job leading our African business, where our system has continued to make major investments to serve growing markets on the continent,” said Henrique Braun, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of The Coca-Cola Company.
“As head of Europe, she will bring great international experience to one of our biggest and most important operating units.”
He added. “Nikos has been a valued colleague for many years, and he has played a vital role in strengthening our European business. The operating unit was honoured as the company’s top performer for 2023, which is a testament to the strong work of Nikos and his team.”
Ortega will continue to report to Braun in her new role. Her successor in Africa will be named at a future date.
