With over 30 years in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry, Sharon Gunness-Balkissoon has been instrumental in shaping Acado Distribution (formerly Hand Arnold) into a leader in distribution, innovation, and brand development.
She began her career in 1992 as a Marketing Assistant at Agostini’s Marketing after studying at the University of the West Indies. Demonstrating a keen aptitude for brand management and strategic growth, she quickly rose through the ranks— from Brand Manager to Marketing Manager then Sales Manager for Grocery. By the early 2000s, she was appointed to the Board of Directors, marking her transition into key leadership roles. In 2009, she joined the Hand Arnold Board of Directors, playing a pivotal role in its merger and acquisition by Agostini Limited. She was appointed CEO in 2011, a role she continues to hold with distinction.
Under Sharon’s leadership, Acado Distribution has experienced near-exponential growth, expanding its portfolio and solidifying its reputation as a leader in innovation and brand development. She was a core member of the Executive Team that spearheaded the creation and launch of MOO! Milk, a game-changing product within the liquid milk category in Trinidad and Tobago.
Beyond distribution, Sharon has also championed Acado Distribution’s manufacturing partnerships, setting the company apart from its local peers within the Distribution sector. In 2019, she led the revitalization of two of Trinidad & Tobago’s most iconic brands, Peardrax and Cydrax, expanding their market presence locally, regionally and internationally. Today, Hand Arnold proudly partners with industry leaders in the manufacturing of key brands such as Richport, Five Roses Flour, Clorox Liquid Bleach, Viking, and Double Duty Garbage Bags, reinforcing its commitment to local manufacturing and product innovation.
As CEO, Sharon oversees 250+ employees and manages partnerships with 30+ multinational and local brands across seven key product categories. Her leadership style is defined by passion, innovation, and a commitment to growth, ensuring Acado Distribution’s continued success and evolution in an ever-changing global market.