Plasencia Cigars has announced the promotion of Javier Carranza to Vice President of Sales, United States, recognizing his instrumental role in developing the company’s U.S. business and his continued contributions to its growth.
Carranza joined Plasencia Cigars in 2016 as U.S. National Sales Director, during the early stages of the Plasencia family’s efforts to establish its own branded cigar portfolio in the American market. Over the past decade, he has played a central role in building the company’s national sales organization, expanding distribution, and cultivating relationships with leading premium cigar retailers and strategic partners throughout the country.
In his new position, Carranza will oversee Plasencia’s U.S. sales organization and commercial strategy, focusing on strengthening retailer partnerships, developing the sales team, refining distribution strategies, and driving sustainable growth while maintaining the brand’s premium positioning.
“Javier has been an integral part of Plasencia’s journey in the United States, helping build our branded business from its earliest days,” said Ed Bello, Chief Executive Officer of Plasencia Cigars. “His leadership, deep understanding of the premium cigar industry, and commitment to our retail partners have contributed significantly to our growth. This promotion recognizes his accomplishments and reflects our confidence in his ability to lead our U.S. sales organization into its next chapter.”
“When Javier joined us ten years ago, we were beginning an important new chapter in our family’s history, building a cigar brand that would carry the Plasencia name,” said Néstor Andrés Plasencia. “He believed in our vision from the very beginning and has dedicated himself to helping us bring that dream to life. Over the years, Javier has become much more than a colleague. He has become part of our family. We are incredibly proud of the leader he has become, but even more proud of the person he is. This promotion is a recognition of his dedication, loyalty, and the trust he has earned, and I look forward to everything we will continue building together.”
“Being part of Plasencia’s growth over the past ten years has been an extraordinary experience,” said Javier Carranza, Vice President of Sales, United States. “When I joined the company, we were building something that went far beyond selling cigars. We helped establish a legacy that carries the Plasencia family name. I’m grateful for the trust the family and our leadership have placed in me, and I look forward to continuing to build on what we’ve accomplished alongside our team and the retail partners who have supported us throughout this journey.”
Born in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, and raised in Miami, Carranza brings approximately 12 years of premium cigar industry experience. Before joining Plasencia, he held positions with Gurkha Cigars, House of Emilio, and AJ Fernandez, developing the sales expertise and industry relationships that have shaped his career.
