Vinay Golikeri becomes Bacardi GTR managing director

Bacardi Global Travel Retail (GTR) has promoted Vinay Golikeri to the position of managing director and named Mike Birch vice president of digital commerce.

Vinay Golikeri has been appointed managing director of Bacardi Global Travel Retail

In his new role, Golikeri will be based in Dubai and will report to Maurice Doyle, president of incubation brands and global commerce.

Golikeri has been with Bacardi for more than 16 years. Since 2011, he has been on the Bacardi GTR leadership team, initially acting as marketing director. He was appointed regional director of Bacardi GTR – Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa in 2016.

As part of the reshuffle, Birch has been named vice president of digital commerce and will now focus entirely on Bacardi’s digital commerce business. Birch previously managed this role in tandem with leading the global travel retail business.

Doyle said: “Mike’s tenure in global travel retail is something we are very proud of, for his partnership approach in delivering sustained growth of our business coupled with impactful traveller engagement plans. We wish Mike every success in his new role.

“Over the past 18 months, as commercial director GTR, Vinay has worked very closely with Mike and me to make this planned transition. I’m confident that with Vinay’s experience and leadership, Bacardi will reinforce our consistent commitment and partnership approach in GTR. Vinay brings a blend of commercial, operational and marketing acumen coupled with a passion for creating win-win relationships.’’

Golikeri added: “I would like to thank Mike for his immense contribution to Bacardi Global Travel Retail. GTR is an incredibly exciting and dynamic opportunity with a unique commercial and brand-building focus. Bacardi has a strong commitment to GTR and the perfect portfolio for the international traveller.”