Allied Domecq Spirits, North America appointed Tom Steffanci president of its northern business unit effective January 4, 2005. Steffanci joins the Allied Domecq Spirits, North America Executive Team bringing leadership expertise from Diageo PLC, where he was senior vice president and general manager, California, that company's largest business unit.

Steffanci held several senior positions with Diageo, where he had been employed since 1997, including vice president of sales, West IMC; and national director of sales, Off-Premise for Diageo's beer business. Before joining Diageo, he worked for Coors Brewing Company in various sales and marketing positions.

Steffanci will be replacing Keith Bellinger, who will be leaving the company at the end of the year to pursue other interests. Steffanci will report to Jim Clerkin, president, Allied Domecq Spirits, North America.

The Allied Domecq Spirits, North America northern business unit is comprised of open states in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and across the Mid- and Northwest region of the United States.

"Allied Domecq is delighted to attract such top talent, and Tom's expertise in customer management, marketing and sales will enable the company to fulfill its vision of being the 'First Choice Supplier' with our customers, consumers and employees," says Clerkin. "Our northern business unit is performing well, and I am confident Tom will seize this opportunity to lead the team to even greater brand growth across the portfolio."