Coca-Cola has appointed Marcos De Quinto as its new chief marketing officer, succeeding Joe Tripodi who is retiring from the company after seven years in the role.

De Quinto, who is currently president of the Iberia business unit and vice president, Europe Group, will succeed Tripodi on January 1 2015.

Muhtar Kent, chairman and chief executive officer of the company said: “During his tenure, Joe has successfully led our Company’s worldwide marketing and commercial organisation, and played a vital role in building and leveraging our marketing capabilities and talent around the globe.”

“I want to thank Joe for his leadership, dedication and many contributions to our business, and wish him and his family much happiness in his retirement,” he added.

During his time at the company, Tripodi helped Coca-Cola launch its famous ‘Open Happiness’ campaign.

Commenting on De Quinto taking over the role, Kent said: “Although Marcos’ DNA is that of a marketer, he has held a number of leadership roles throughout his career and he will bring a global view with strong operational experience to this key role.”

De Quinto has been in his current role since 2000 and has previously held various division marketing roles across Spain, Southeast and West Asia, Germany, as well as general management roles in Singapore and Malaysia.

Over the next several months, Tripodi and De Quinto will work in partnership to ensure a smooth transition.