Bacardi Ltd. has named 17-year company veteran Javier Ferran to be its next president and chief executive officer.

Mr. Ferran, will succeed Ruben Rodriguez, as president and CEO of the company early this summer. Mr. Rodriguez will continue as chairman.

Mr. Ferran currently serves as Regional President of Europe, Middle East and Africa for Bacardi Ltd. and is a member of the company's executive committee.

"Mr. Ferran has a superb track record of success and a wealth of industry experience, serving as Managing Director of Martini & Rossi Ltd. (UK), and more recently as President of Europe, Middle East and Africa for Bacardi Ltd. a key region for the company," said Mr. Rodriguez. "The Board of Directors recognises Mr. Ferran's demonstrated leadership abilities, his business acumen, and his commitment to the success of the company."