Plasencia Cigars has expanded Tim Griek’s role within the company, appointing him Vice President of Sales, EMEA & Global Travel Retail.

Griek has worked with Plasencia since 2023, supporting the company’s Global Travel Retail business along with the Middle East market. In his new position, he will oversee sales efforts across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Global Travel Retail channel while working with distributors and retail partners throughout those regions.

Before joining Plasencia, Griek spent nearly 15 years in the premium tobacco industry, developing sales strategies and managing international business relationships. He is based in Rotkreuz, Switzerland.

The appointment also marks a personal milestone for Griek, who says his first premium cigar happened to be made by the Plasencia family.

โ€œWhat excites me most about this new role is the opportunity to continue building long-lasting partnerships around the world while representing a brand that is setting a new standard of quality in our industry,โ€ said Tim. โ€œLooking back, it feels like a full-circle moment. Fifteen years ago, my first premium cigar was crafted by the Plasencia family. Today, I have the privilege of helping share their story with partners and consumers around the world. Together with our global partners, we have an opportunity to continue elevating Plasencia as a benchmark for premium cigars worldwide.โ€

Ed Bello, Chief Executive Officer of Plasencia Cigars, said Griek’s experience and industry relationships made him a natural fit for the position.

โ€œTim brings extensive international experience, strong industry relationships, and a deep understanding of global markets,โ€ said Bello. โ€œHis leadership, strategic mindset, and commitment to building meaningful partnerships make him exceptionally well suited for this role. We are excited to have him guide the next chapter of Plasenciaโ€™s growth across EMEA and Global Travel Retail.โ€