Ian Forbes Steps In as Angostura CEO for the Third Time

Angostura Holdings has once again turned to its trusted executive, Ian Forbes, to lead the company. Forbes, currently the Chief Operating Officer (COO), assumed the role of Angostura CEO on an interim basis effective October 1, marking his third time in the position.
(Source: Global Drinks Intel)

Leadership Transition at Angostura Holdings

After nine months without a permanent CEO, Angostura Holdings announced that Ian Forbes will temporarily oversee the bitters and rum producer’s operations. While continuing his duties as COO—a role he has held since 2020—Forbes will manage the company for six months, ensuring continuity in leadership during this transitional phase.

This move follows the departure of Laurent Schun, who had joined Angostura in early 2023 after leaving Pernod Ricard. Schun’s tenure ended on January 17, 2024, according to a disclosure made to the Trinidad & Tobago Stock Exchange.

Background: Schun’s Tenure and Departure

Local media reported that Laurent Schun had been based in Miami since August 2023, serving “solely in an advisory capacity” for Angostura’s international business development. Despite his brief leadership, Schun’s exit left a void that the board has once again asked Forbes to fill.

Forbes, who joined Angostura in 2017, previously held the interim Angostura CEO role twice—first between April and December 2019 as executive manager of operations, and later from September 2020 until January 2023, before Schun officially took over.

Forbes’ Continued Leadership and Industry Experience

Known for his operational expertise and steady management, Ian Forbes brings consistency to Angostura’s executive team. His return as interim Angostura CEO reflects the company’s confidence in his leadership during periods of change.

Angostura has not yet announced a timeline for appointing a permanent CEO, but Forbes’ dual role suggests a focus on operational efficiency while maintaining strategic growth in key international markets.

Angostura’s 2024 Financial Snapshot

In its 2024 financial report, Angostura Holdings recorded TTD 1.06 billion (US$154 million) in group sales—representing a modest 1% increase from the previous year. The company highlighted a 12% surge in international sales, underscoring its growing global presence.

However, Angostura acknowledged that local market segments faced challenges, suggesting uneven performance between domestic and export markets.

Stability and Strategy Ahead

As Ian Forbes takes the helm once again, Angostura faces the task of balancing stability with innovation. His leadership will guide the brand through upcoming market shifts while preserving its historic reputation for quality rum and bitters.

Forbes’ third appointment as interim Angostura CEO symbolizes both trust and resilience within the company’s leadership—qualities that continue to define Angostura’s legacy in the Caribbean spirits industry.

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Source of Information

Global Drinks Intel Article — Angostura parachutes operations head in to hold CEO reins for third time, written by staff.

The image of the article is courtesy of ©Rene Terp via Canva.com