Effective immediately, Rivera will replace James L. “Jim” Dinkins as president of North America, who led the division since 2018 and is retiring after 32 years with the company. Rivera will report directly to president and COO Brian Smith, said Coca-Cola.
Rivera oversaw Coca-Cola's Latin America group since 2016 and has been with the company since 1997. As a native of Honduras, Rivera joined the company in the Central America and Caribbean Division as a district manager for Guatemala and El Salvador. He went on to serve in roles of greater responsibility in Brazil, Ecuador and Mexico before being named president of the Latin Center business unit.
"Alfredo has had a remarkable career in Latin America, which is made up of a large number of highly complex and diverse markets,” said Coca-Cola chairman and CEO James Quincey.
Coca-Cola reported value share gains across its Latin America beverage portfolio in Q2 2020 as the region was impacted by fewer lockdown restrictions compared with other markets. For the quarter, the company reported including gains in sparkling soft drinks; its juice, dairy and plant-based beverages segment; and its enhanced water and sports drinks offerings.
“Alfredo has built a networked organization that is positioning our business to emerge stronger from the current pandemic. He is a strong successor for the top role in our flagship," continued Quincey.
The company has not yet shared future leadership plans for its Latin America division.