Acosta Appoints New President, CEO

Acosta has appointed Alejandro Rodriguez Bas as its new president and CEO.  

Rodriguez Bas joins Acosta from C&S Wholesale Grocers, where he was most recently EVP of new business and market development. He spearheaded the creation of a division that serves the natural, organic, specialty, gourmet and international, ethnic and local markets.

Gary Chartrand will continue to serve as Acosta’s executive board chairman and will work closely with Rodriguez Bas during the transition. Chartrand has a 35-year history with Acosta, having served as its CEO, executive chairman of the board, and, most recently, interim CEO. 

“Alejandro’s appointment marks an exciting milestone in Acosta’s history,” said Chartrand, who described the company's new top executive in a statement as "an astute and accomplished leader with strong relationships in our industry.  These relationships, coupled with his impressive record of driving growth, innovation and operational excellence, will enable him to effectively lead Acosta.” 

Additionally, Rodriguez Bas was CEO of Latin American dairy company Grupo Lala Mexico and Central America, where he led the company through an initial public offering valued at $5 billion. He also held various leadership roles at PepsiCo, including CEO of Australia and New Zealand, for almost a decade. 

“I am excited and privileged to join a forward-thinking company that is taking a lead role in creating innovative technologies and solutions that deliver results for its clients and retailers,” said Rodriquez Bas. “Acosta’s broad expertise, top talent and passion for delivering best-in-class results are the right ingredients for longevity and success in this complex, ever-changing industry.”