Nashauna Drummond, Staff Reporter

Corporate Relations Director, Noel DaCosta, presents retired Red Stripe board member, O.K. Melhado, with a painting by Andwell Haughton.

Owen Karl Melhado and the Hon. Pat Rousseau were declared 'men of the match' by Red Stripe at a dinner to celebrate their retirement. Mr. Melhado will be replaced as a director by his son Peter while Rousseau's retirement marks the end of his tenure as Chairman (he remains a director).

This celebratory transition took place at Strawberry Hill Resprt and Spa Last Thursday

Though an end may have come to their innings, they both scored centuries not out and as such will go down in history for their indomitable role in transforming Desnoes and Geddes into the Red Stripe that we know today.

With Simon Croskill and Grace Silvera leading the proceedings, the importance of the post-match ceremony was unmistakable. So with a great view of Kingston in the background, those present were given a walk down memory lane with two short videos highlighting the contributions that the two men made to the company. Insights into the real men they were away from the boardroom were revealed by family members and colleagues.

Pat Rousseau

The interest of this Wolmer's Boys' School old boy ranged from music to horse racing. An attorney, he has been chairman and president of numerous boards, from the West Indies Cricket Board of Control to Life of Jamaica and 13 years at Red Stripe.

New chairman of Red Stripe's board of directors, Richard Byles, noted that from Life of Jamaica (LOJ) to Red Stripe he couldn't have asked for a better tutor.

Rousseau in his response said that he had experienced some interesting times and CEOs during his tenure at Red Stripe. However, he challenged the new board noting that he would still be around asking the tough questions.

OK Melhado

With a disposition as easy as his name, Melhado was lauded for his humanity by Managing Director of Red Stripe, Mark McKenzie. He noted that Melhado was the first director to invite him into his home to meet his family. Though a simple gesture, he noted that it had a great impact on him. Mckenzie said, "It was an honour to know you, and a privilege to work with you."

Melhado, in his response, noted that by honouring him they were also honouring a family - all of whom had contributed so much to the company.

Both honorees were presented with citations and paintings by young artist, Andwell Haughton.