The man who ran Bacardi’s operations in Mexico, Manuel Rubiralta Diaz, died while on a business trip to Bermuda on Monday.

The famous drink company’s global headquarters are in Pitts Bay Road and Mr. Diaz, 63, was on Island as part of official company business when he died unexpectedly, a company spokeswoman confirmed.

No details as to the cause of the father-of-three’s death have been released. However a Police spokesman said he died onboard a private jet heading to the US.

“It appears that one of the passengers on a private jet bound for the USA collapsed while the plane was in transit. CPR was given to the male victim onboard the plane as it returned to Bermuda, where he was rushed via ambulance to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital,” said the spokesman.

Mr. Diaz was pronounced dead at 5.30 p.m. at the hospital. There are no suspicious circumstances.

The businessman was in charge of Bacardi’s operations in Mexico since 2000 and was executive president of Bacardi y Compania, S.A. de C.V.

“We are deeply honoured to have known Manuel as a friend and as president of Bacardi Mexico over the last seven years. Manuel was successful in leading Bacardi Mexico out of a difficult operating environment to becoming the leading spirits company in Mexico today. His integrity and commitment served as a beacon of light within the company,” said Facundo L. Bacardi, chairman of Bacardi Limited.

“We will never forget Manuel or the many achievements he accomplished in Mexico. We have all suffered a tremendous loss and our prayers are with Manuel’s wife, Susana, and the entire Rubiralta family.”

Andreas Gembler, president and chief executive officer of Bacardi Limited, said: “Manuel’s intellect and enthusiasm in leading the company in Mexico inspired us all. His dedication and keen business insight will be greatly missed. As our friend and colleague, we will miss him dearly.”

Mr. Diaz, who lived in Mexico, is survived by his wife and three children.

While at Bacardi Mexico, he also served as president of Comision de la Industria de Vinos y Licores and president of Fundacion de Investigaciones Sociales, A.C.

Before he joined Bacardi Mexico, Mr. Diaz held leadership positions with Grumo, Grupo Televisa, Pepsico de Mexico, Cerveceria Cuauhtemoc and Colgate Palmolive.