#USA #Kōloa Rum #Hawaiian Rum #Robert Ramer #Kalaheo, Kaua'i

Exciting Leadership Change at Kōloa Rum Company

In a strategic move aimed at fostering growth, the Kōloa Rum Company has appointed Robert Ramer as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective May 1, 2026. This appointment marks a significant transition for the company, as Ramer takes over from Bob Gunter, who has served as President and CEO for nearly two decades. Gunter's legacy, built on a foundation of quality and sustainability, sets a high bar for Ramer as he embarks on this new chapter.

Ramer's journey with Kōloa Rum began in 2011 when he joined as an operations intern, demonstrating an early passion for the company’s values and vision. He temporarily ventured into professional baseball and later returned to the corporate realm, signing on to work in enterprise software sales. However, his love for Kōloa rum brought him back in 2019, where he quickly rose through the ranks. Ramer’s latest role prior to being named COO was as Chief Commercial Officer, where he excelled in enhancing Kōloa Rum’s domestic and international commercial strategies. His extensive experience has equipped him well to steer the company toward future expansion.

Bob Gunter, who led Kōloa Rum during a critical growth phase, leaves behind a remarkable legacy. His tenure began in 2008 as COO, before becoming President and CEO in 2010. Under his leadership, Kōloa Rum grew to become a celebrated producer of premium, small-batch Hawaiian rum, renowned for its commitment to locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices. Gunter played an instrumental role in positioning Kōloa Rum as a leader in the spirits industry, emphasizing the cultural heritage of Kaua'i and the vibrant essence of Hawaiian craftsmanship.

Reflecting on his years at the helm, Gunter stated, “Having the opportunity to lead Kōloa Rum has been one of the most meaningful chapters of my life. When I joined this company, our hope was simple: to craft a rum that truly reflects Kaua'i – its people, its history, and the Spirit of Aloha. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together.” He leaves with confidence in Ramer's capabilities to honor Kōloa Rum's heritage while exploring new opportunities and growth trajectories.

As Ramer steps into his new role, he emphasizes continuity and innovation. “I’ve grown with this team and seen the resilience and pride that define our work. This is a continuation of our shared journey, and I'm honored to help lead it to the next chapter,” he remarked. Ramer acknowledges the strong foundation built by his predecessor and looks forward to shaping the brand’s future.

Founded in 2009, Kōloa Rum Company is dedicated to producing handcrafted rums using the highest quality cane sugar and pristine rainwater sourced from Mount Waiʻaleʻale. The company's portfolio includes a diverse range of rums like White, Gold, Dark, Spice, Coconut, Cacao, Coffee, and Aged rums, each made to reflect the culture and ingredients of the Hawaiian Islands. Recognized for their smooth texture and distinctive flavors, Kōloa rums embody the Spirit of Aloha.

Today, Kōloa Rum products are available across 38 U.S. states and select international markets, marking it as the first licensed distillery on Kaua'i since the end of Prohibition. Its commitment to quality and sustainability remains steadfast, as they uphold traditional methods while adapting to modern trends in the spirits industry.

As the company gears up for its next phase of expansion, the appointment of Robert Ramer as COO signals a promising future for Kōloa Rum, ensuring that the rich heritage of Hawaiian rum continues to thrive under new leadership. For more information about the company and its products, those interested can visit Kōloa Rum.