Innovation Beverage Group (IBG) said Friday it appointed Sahil Beri as interim chief executive officer while the search is underway for a new CEO and the company is pursuing expansion plans.

Beri, who serves as chair and chief operating officer, succeeds Dean Huge, who resigned to pursue other interests

The leadership change comes as the beverage manufacturer focuses on growth, including an expansion into the eastern US market.

IBG said its Australian Bitters Company and Bittertales brands are now being rolled out in the US under a sales services agreement with Atlanta-based Blue Ridge Spirits & Wine Marketing.

This eastern US rollout is part of a broader strategy to strengthen its presence in key North American markets, according to the company.

Shares of Innovation Beverage Group were down nearly 5% in recent trading.

Price: 1.06, Change: -0.05, Percent Change: -4.93