October 8/Politics & Government Week -- Heineken USA announced that Dolf van den Brink, currently commercial director and deputy general manager of Bralima, Heineken's operating company in the Democratic Republic of Congo, will become the new president and CEO of Heineken USA.

Commenting on the appointment, John Nicolson, Heineken's regional president for the Americas said, "I am delighted to have someone of Dolf's vitality, leadership capability and commercial experience to lead our U.S. business. His track record of growing brands and developing people across both mature and developing markets is outstanding. During his time with Bralima, in a highly complex operating environment, the company has become one of the fastest growing businesses within the Heineken group. I believe that Dolf's leadership coupled with the strength of the existing management team, brand portfolio and distributor network will be a powerful and successful combination."

Dolf van den Brink said, "This is a unique and significant opportunity. I am genuinely excited to be joining a business that has such excellent employees and experienced, committed business partners. My highest priority will be to engage with all our stakeholders so that together, and at significant pace, we can fulfill our mission to continue building dynamic, relevant brands for our consumers."

From the October 12, 2009, Prepared Foods E-dition