Henrique Braun, the new CEO of the Coca-Cola Co., recently spoke to the Rotary Club of Atlanta, emphasizing the strong connection between the city and the beverage company. Braun noted that the first Coca-Cola was poured 140 years ago in Atlanta, just a few blocks away from the Loudermilk Center Downtown.

Atlanta’s Significance to Coca-Cola

Braun expressed his pride in being from Atlanta, stating that the company’s brands reach the entire world, but the city remains the jumping-off point. He also highlighted the company’s commitment to the community, with $277 million invested in Atlanta and a total of $1.7 billion given away by the Coca-Cola Foundation since its inception.

Braun’s speech was introduced by Bea Perez, a senior vice president of the company and a Rotarian. Perez mentioned that Braun has been with Coca-Cola for over 30 years, working in four different continents. Braun also thanked his mentors, including Brian Dyson, former CEO of Coca-Cola Enterprises, and Kathy Waller, a former CFO of the company.

Philanthropy and Community Engagement

During the question-and-answer portion, Braun discussed the importance of philanthropy and community engagement. He stated that great communities create great businesses and emphasized the company’s focus on making a difference. The Coca-Cola Co. also announced a $50,000 contribution to the Rotary’s early childhood education initiative.

Original reporting: SaportaReport — read the source article.