ABARTA Coca-Cola Beverages announces the retirement of James Taylor, esteemed Chair of the Board, and former CEO and President of ABARTA Oil & Gas Company, effective July 1, 2025.
Taylor has been an integral part of the ABARTA leadership since he joined the team on June 15, 1985. Over the past four decades, his leadership, vision, and commitment have been instrumental in shaping the company into what it is today. As a member of the family that owns ABARTA, Taylor has contributed professionally and imbued the organization with a deep sense of tradition and values.
Taylor has demonstrated exceptional dedication throughout his tenure and achieved numerous milestones. From beginning his career at the Press of Atlantic City, rotating through various departments, including the mail room, advertising, the press room, and circulation, to even managing a unique project and building a new office in Pleasantville, New Jersey, Taylor never shied away from challenges and sought out new opportunities from the very beginning of his career.
Taylor left the Press of Atlantic City to pursue his Master of Business Administration at the University of Michigan. Shortly after graduating with his MBA, Taylor worked in the finance department for Buffalo Coca-Cola.
Taylor’s vast experiences ultimately led him to ABARTA Oil and Gas as CEO and President for over 27 years. Leading an incredible team of individuals, the group made sure to have fun while getting the job done. During this time, Taylor was simultaneously the Chair of the Board of Directors for ABARTA Inc. In 2023, while Chair of the Board, ABARTA Inc. was recognized as Private Company Board of the Year by Private Company Director Magazine.
“Through Jim’s tenure he has showed exceptional leadership, integrity, and vision that has helped shape our company’s journey,” said Charlie Bitzer, CEO, ABARTA Coca-Cola Beverages.
ABARTA Inc. saw many expansions while under his guidance. His strategic insights and unwavering commitment to excellence have left an indelible mark on our company.
In his final career move to Senior Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, Taylor has worked closely with senior leadership to help plan for the future of ABARTA Coca-Cola Beverages and identify company strengths and opportunities.
“Jim’s retirement marks the end of an era, and while we will miss his daily presence, we are also excited for him as he embarks on this new chapter of his life,” said Bitzer. “We wish our heartfelt gratitude to Jim for his remarkable service and wishing him all the best in his well-deserved retirement.”
As a result of Jim’s retirement, The Board of ABARTA has named Charles Bitzer Executive Chair of ABARTA effective January 22, 2025.
