CAA President David Ozgo Resigns

David Ozgo has resigned from his position as president of the Cigar Association of America (CAA), a role he has occupied since December 2021.

No reason was given for his departure, though the organization issued the following statement:

David Ozgo has announced that he is moving on from his position as President of the Cigar Association of America. CAA wants to acknowledge David’s committed service to the Association, and is grateful for his leadership.  In his time at CAA he modernized the association’s public relations and social media capability. His op-eds and interviews have been valuable in communicating industry positions. Additionally, his hard work brought in several new members.  We wish David all the luck on his next venture.

CAA’s board of directors will be embarking on a comprehensive search for new executive leadership. CAA is well positioned to continue its mission of supporting our members and helping the industry to thrive.

Chris Howard will chair the organization’s search and transition committee.

CAA primarily represents a diverse group of companies that include the largest premium cigar brands—Altadis U.S.A., Davidoff, Drew Estate and General Cigar Co.—as well as others like AJ Fernandez, J.C. Newman and Perdomo. The country’s largest retailers—Cigars International, Famous Smoke Shop and JR Cigar—are also members, as are tobacco growers. Its membership also includes companies that focus on non-premium cigars like Djarum and ITG Brands. During Ozgo’s tenure, the organization expanded its membership to include new members like Miami Cigar & Co. and Quality Importers Trading Co.