After 47 years of service, Conrad W. Rafield III is retiring from the board of directors of Coca-Cola Bottling Company United Inc. effective April 28, 2026.
Rafield, who was appointed to the board in 1979, is the longest-serving director in United’s 124-year history. He has served as board chairman since 2023.
Rafield began his career with United in 1969, when he worked summers at Birmingham Coca-Cola Bottling Co.
“It has been an honor to serve alongside so many dedicated directors and leaders, and to ultimately have the privilege of serving as board chairman,” said Rafield. “As I prepare to step away, I am excited for our future. I want to thank my fellow directors, our president and CEO Mike Suco, our executive leadership team and our 10,000-plus associates who work hard every day to move United forward.”
Suco said, “I am very grateful to Conrad for his many years of service and leadership, which have been so valued to United. I am also extremely appreciative of the advice, guidance and counsel he has provided me as CEO.”