Plasencia Cigars has announced the appointment of Tim Griek as Vice President of Sales, EMEA & Global Travel Retail, a leadership role focused on expanding the company’s presence across international markets.
Based in Rotkreuz, Switzerland, Griek will oversee sales efforts throughout Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Global Travel Retail channel. In the role, he will work with distributors, retailers, and business partners to support Plasencia’s continued growth in those regions.
Griek brings nearly 15 years of experience in the tobacco industry to the position. Since 2023, he has worked with the Plasencia family business in the Global Travel Retail channel and the Middle East, helping expand the company’s presence in both markets.
According to Plasencia Cigars, the appointment reflects the company’s continued investment in strengthening its international sales organization and building long-term partnerships across key global markets.
“What excites me most about this new role is the opportunity to continue building long-lasting partnerships around the world,” Griek said in a statement. “Together with our global partners, we have an opportunity to continue elevating Plasencia as a benchmark for premium cigars worldwide.”
Ed Bello, Chief Executive Officer of Plasencia Cigars, said Griek’s experience in international markets and relationship-driven approach make him well suited to lead the company’s sales efforts across the EMEA region and Global Travel Retail.
“Tim brings extensive international experience, strong industry relationships, and a deep understanding of global markets,” Bello said. “His leadership, strategic mindset, and commitment to building meaningful partnerships make him exceptionally well suited for this role.”
Founded on a tobacco-growing tradition dating back to 1865, Plasencia Cigars continues to expand its international operations through investments in sales, marketing, and brand development as it grows its presence in markets around the world.