Japan Tobacco International has tapped Anastasios Sitsas as general manager of its Korean operation, the multinational tobacco manufacturer said Monday.

Sitsas, 48, began his career as a consumer and trade marketing expert in 1990 at British tobacco maker Gallaher, accumulating experience across Greece, Italy, Russia, Kazakhstan, Switzerland and some African nations.

After Gallaher was acquired by JTI in 2007, the Greek general manager headed JTI’s regional operation in Central Asia, including Kazakhstan, Mongolia and Kyrgyzstan.

Prior to taking the helm at JTI Korea, he has led the strategic marketing of Sobranie, Glamour, Benson & Hedges and Silk Cut at the JTI headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.

“I plan to effectively leverage the diverse experience that I have gained while working in various countries across the globe to offer high-quality products and services that satisfy the needs of Korean consumers,” Sitsas said.

JTI operates in 120 countries and is best known for its flagship brands Winston, Mevius and Camel.

Its Korean operation, JTI Korea, was launched in 1992, and currently runs 22 branches nationwide.

By Chung Joo-won (joowonc@heraldcorp.com)