Premium Northern Irish drinks distributor and brand innovator Drinksology Kirker Greer (DKG) has appointed Ryan McFarland as its Chief Commercial and Strategy Officer.
As part of his three- to five-year strategy McFarland plans to build the company’s presence in global travel retail – a critical channel for the growth and success of DKG’s brand portfolio. In the new role, he also serves as an Executive Board Member, shaping the business by implementing brand and geographic expansion strategies.
McFarland’s experience in the global alcohol & beverage sector combines a record of building luxury and premium spirits brands with the development of strategic commercial growth initiatives. He most recently worked as Growth and Innovation Director EMEA & APAC at Molson Coors Beverage Company.
Drinksology Kirker Greer CEO Steven Pattison said, “The business is readying itself for growth and we are investing to make that happen – Ryan’s experience to date suits us perfectly to support this next stage. Having spent over 20 years in the industry, he has gained a great reputation for building high-performing teams and strong customer relationships.
“He will use this experience to help develop and execute our growth strategies for not only the business but our brands too. It is a very exciting time for DKG as we seek to unlock the huge potential that awaits us globally.”
McFarland commented: “Coming from Northern Ireland myself, it has always been my ambition to take a Belfast-based business to scale globally and I believe DKG has a portfolio of exceptional brands to do this. The company is backed with a solid innovation pipeline, passionate people and a world of untapped opportunity.
“I am starting to develop a clear strategic direction for the brands on a global scale, with an immediate focus on the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. I look forward to executing that plan with not only the fantastic team DKG already has in place, and also building that team over the coming years.”
One of DKG’s divisions includes Kirker Greer Spirits which owns, manages and distributes a range of premium spirit brands internationally. Its portfolio includes brands such as Ukiyo Japanese Spirits, Kirker Shamrock Whiskey, Ginato Italian Gin and Jawbox Irish Gin.
The second division of DKG, Drinksology Creative, is a design, branding and marketing agency. It has designed some of the world’s leading bars, brands and brand homes including The Dead Rabbit, New York; The Johnnie Walker Experience, Edinburgh; and Roe & Co Distillery, Dublin. ✈
