Stella David Gets Top Job At William Grant

[John]

Whisky distiller William Grant and Sons announced a change at the top yesterday, with chief executive Roland van Bommel stepping down after five years in the post.

Grant, based at Dufftown, said Bacardi marketing officer Stella David, 47, was taking over in a move which marks another large stride for equality in UK boardrooms. She is believed to be the first woman to head up a whisky firm.

The company said Mr van Bommel, who decided to go late last year, was leaving to pursue other interests but he would stay on for a spell to help make the transition smoother.

Chairman Peter Gordon: "While it is with regret that we see the departure of Roland, we would like to recognise his significant contribution in taking the company to a new level.

"We are very pleased to welcome Stella to join the board as our new chief executive as we continue our journey to grow the company and become a brand-led business, with offerings that are the envy of the industry."?

Grant said Mr van Bommel, 58, had built a stronger and broader executive team, and implemented significant improvements across the business.

Ms David, who hails from Yorkshire, starts her new job on August 10 and will be based at the group's main marketing office at Richmond, in London.

She has had several senior roles at Bacardi, including vice-president of global operations, managing director for the Asia-Pacific region and chief executive of the drink group's British and Dutch businesses.

For the past four years, she has been responsible for marketing Bacardi, which owns Perthshire-based Dewar's plus distilleries in the north and north-east.

She is also a non-executive director of the Nationwide Building Society and chairwoman of its remuneration committee.

Family-run Grant, established in 1887, is behind whisky brands including Glenfiddich and The Balvenie.

Its portfolio also includes Hendrick's gin, Sailor Jerry spiced rum, Monkey Shoulder triple malt whisky, Tequila Milagro and Reyka vodka.

John

Source: Press & Journal