Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) today announced the retirement of long standing Chairman, Dr. Yesu Persaud. He will be replaced by Komal Samaroo.
Persaud, 85, has served at DDL for over 48 years, a release from the company said.
The release from the company said:
“Under the leadership of Yesu Persaud, DDL grew from being only a manufacturer and exporter of bulk rum to building a global brand, El Dorado Rums, and achieving and maintaining the status of the World’s Best Rum.
“Additionally, Yesu Persaud, provided leadership for corporate expansion and the development and acquisition on several subsidiaries in a variety of sectors including, financial services, food processing, distribution and shipping.
“Over the years at DDL and its subsidiaries along with his contributions to business organisations, social organisations and charities Dr. Yesu Persaud has received several local and international awards for his leadership and service.
“Board Member Rudy Collins in making the announcement said “Dr. Persaud’s contribution to the rum industry in particular and to Guyana’s development in general has been outstanding. It only bears noting that DDL today is the one nationalised entity that remains comfortably afloat after the turbulence experienced during Guyana’s formative years. DDL and its related companies became Dr. Persaud’s family, some conceived by him, but all cared for with the love and attention that only a devoted parent can give.”
“The Board of Directors, Management, Staff and Shareholders of DDL thank Dr. Yesu Persaud for his service and wish him long life and continued achievement.
“The Board of Directors also announced that at their statutory meeting on 15 Nevember 2013 Mr. Komal Samarro was appointed Chairman of the Board with effect from 1 January 2014.”
