Fitzpatrick, who is from Waringstown in County Down, has worked for Coca-Cola HBC for more than 20 years, starting as a business developer before rising through the ranks.
Prior to becoming general manager at the start of this month, he served as head of international key accounts across all 29 Coca-Cola HBC markets, while he also has experience as Ireland sales director and commercial director for the Irish Football Association.
Alongside his work at Coca-Cola HBC, Fitzpatrick is the vice president of the Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association.
In this new role, Fitzpatrick will lead the beverage business, which is the strategic bottling partner to The Coca-Cola Company for the island of Ireland. This includes distributing a 24/7 beverage portfolio with locally owned brands including Deep RiverRock and Fruice.
He will also spearhead the beverage firm’s transition to NetZero by 2040 and the roll-out of the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), which goes live in Northern Ireland in 2027.
‘Advancement of local talent’
“I am incredibly proud and honoured to take up the role of General Manager for Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland,” Fitzpatrick said in his first day on the job.
“I have spent almost all my career at Coca-Cola HBC and know first-hand what an incredible business it is.”
Touching on Coca-Cola HBC’s role in Ireland and Northern Ireland, he added: “With over 850 employees across the Island of Ireland, Coca-Cola HBC plays a vital role in energising the local economy. Our commitment to the local Irish and Northern Irish markets is reflected in our sustained investment in our people, the communities we serve, and our strong portfolio of globally known, locally produced beverages.
“We are dedicated to supporting the advancement of local talent, enhancing the skills of our workforce, and supporting local businesses to drive opportunity and growth in the market. Our long-standing business on this island emphasises our commitment to supporting the development of a stronger local economy for our customers, people, and communities.”
