TAMPA, FL -- Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, one of the largest privately held, independent Coke bottlers in the U.S., has promoted several of its senior-level executives. The Tampa, FL, bottler has promoted David Cross from vice-president of human resources to senior HR vice-president. Terrence Gee, CCBF's chief information officer and Deborah Pond, the bottler's counsel, have been elevated to senior vice-presidents, too.

Jason Reed, previously vice-president of manufacturing operations, is now senior VP of the same business area. And Erin Black, previously director of environmental, health, safety and sustainability has been named vice-president of sustainability and risk management.

Coca-Cola Florida chairman and chief executive Troy Taylor said that over the past six months, the bottler has tripled the size of its business through the acquisitions of distribution territories and operations in north and south Florida. CCBF employs 4,500 people.

"We have also added significant capabilities through the acquisitions of manufacturing facilities in our territory," Taylor said. "These management appointments will help to ensure that we have the right structure and alignment to grow profitability and drive operational excellence as we serve more consumers, customers, communities throughout the Sunshine State."