PRESS RELEASE
Published on December 12, 2002
The Coca-Cola Company Media Relations Department
P.O. Box 1734, Atlanta, Georgia 30301
Telephone (404) 676-2121
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Sonya Soutus
(404) 676-2683
STEVEN J. HEYER ELECTED PRESIDENT AND
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, THE COCA-COLA COMPANY
ATLANTA, Dec. 11, 2002 - The Board of Directors of The Coca-Cola
Company today elected Steven J. Heyer president and chief operating officer,
said Doug Daft, chairman and chief executive officer. Mr. Heyer was president
and chief operating officer, Coca-Cola Ventures and Coca-Cola Latin America.
Mr. Daft said, "I have asked Steve Heyer to serve as president and
chief operating officer of The Coca-Cola Company and the Board has endorsed my
recommendation. Over the past 18 months, Steve has brought a fresh and
objective perspective that has been enormously helpful to all of us while,
at the same time, embracing and learning from the rich historic culture of
Coca-Cola. This combination uniquely qualifies him for this key position.
"With Steve closely collaborating with his colleagues on the senior
management team, I expect highly effective leadership that will accelerate the
progress we are making toward strengthening our long-term position in the
- more -
marketplace. Indeed, I am especially pleased that we are able to take this step
at this time, so that our team will be firmly in place as we undertake fresh
initiatives in 2003 that build further upon earlier accomplishments," concluded
Mr. Daft.
Mr. Heyer said, "I am honored that Doug and the Board have asked me to
serve as president and chief operating officer. Doug has created the vision and
strategy to take this Company forward, and I am delighted that I will have the
opportunity to work even closer with him as we execute on his priorities and
take The Coca-Cola Company to greater heights.
"I first came to The Coca-Cola Company because of the unparalleled
quality of the franchise, and the values and history that have made Coca-Cola
the special company it is today. Coca-Cola is the world's most popular brand
because it has a unique and special culture of doing the right thing. Key to
our long-term success is our ability to build strong relationships, and grow
together with our communities, consumers and partners. Working with Doug Daft
and the rest of the senior leadership team, I intend to do everything I can to
nurture and strengthen the brand."
In his new role, Mr. Heyer will work closely with Mr. Daft and the
other members of senior management to execute the company's strategy, coordinate
and control its allocation of resources, ensure the tight alignment of the
company and its bottling partners, and assure excellence in all aspects of the
company's marketing.
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