Bacardi has appointed a new global chief communications officer.

Jim Gallagher — who previously worked for global sports, media and fashion firm IMG — will work with Bacardi CEO Mike Dolan on long-term strategy as well as direct the drinks company’s corporate and brand public relations around the world.

Mr Gallagher said: “It is an honour to be invited to join the world-class senior management team at Bacardi. I am looking forward to focusing the company’s communications and branding efforts to help maximise the potential of its unmatched portfolio of iconic global brands.”

Mr Dolan said: “We are delighted to welcome Jim to the Bacardi team. With his breadth of business communications and public relations experience at some of the world’s largest companies, Jim will be invaluable as we continue to showcase exciting Bacardi initiatives around the world.”

Mr Gallagher has also worked at MLB Advanced Media, the interactive media and internet company of Major League baseball as senior vice-president of corporate communications from the firm’s start-up in 2000.

And he spent 20 years leading corporate communications at ITT Corporation, with a wide array of sports and entertainment properties, including New York’s Madison Square Garden, the New York Knicks basketball team and ice hockey’s New York Rangers, as well as Sheraton Hotels and the Caesar’s Palace gambling properties.

Mr Gallagher will be based in the Bermuda Bacardi HQ, subject to Department of Immigration approval.

Bacardi is the largest privately-owned spirits company in the world, with a brand stable including Grey Goose vodka, Dewar’s scotch whisky and Bombay Sapphire gin, as well as its Bacardi rum.