Coca-Cola Consolidated names new communications executive

Charlotte-based Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated has named Kimberly Kuo its new senior vice president of public affairs, communications and communities.

She replaces Lauren Steele, 61, who is retiring after nearly 34 years with the company.

Kuo, 45, will oversee the company’s internal and external communications, federal and state government affairs, and community programs, the bottler said in a statement this week.

Kuo has more than 20 years of experience in communications and marketing experience, Coca-Cola said, including serving as chief marketing officer at Baker & Taylor, as a spokesperson for Internet giant AOL and as press secretary for Sen. Bob Dole. Most recently, Kuo was principal consultant at Sterling Strategies.

Kuo is a graduate of Stanford University with a graduate degree from the London School of Economics, according to her LinkedIn page.

Steele will continue to consult for Coca-Cola Consolidated for a transitional period, the company said.

Coca-Cola Consolidated, the largest independent bottler of Coca-Cola products, has its corporate headquarters in SouthPark.

This story was originally published January 21, 2016 at 8:53 AM with the headline "Coca-Cola Consolidated names new communications executive."