Coca-Cola Taps Experienced Exec for North America Role Amid Market Slump

Coca-Cola has named Rob Gehring as its new North America president, effective in December. Gehring brings experience from within the Coca-Cola system and Monster Beverage, which is important given their close commercial ties.

The announcement comes as shares of the beverage giant have eased over the past month, giving back part of a strong run earlier in the year. Consumer staples like Coca-Cola have trailed technology-led markets lately, but are still considered reliable dividend payers.

As president of North America, Gehring will oversee marketing, pricing architecture, package design, and retailer negotiations in the largest single consumer market for Coca-Cola. His experience with both companies is expected to help deepen their commercial relationship.