Edrington today announced that CEO Ian Curle will retire in March 2019 after 15 years in the role.
Scott McCroskie has been named as his successor. McCroskie is a current member of the Edrington board and Managing Director of The Macallan.
Curle joined Edrington in 1986 via its subsidiary Lang Brothers. He became Group Operations Director in 1997 and succeeded Sir Ian Good as CEO in 2004.
Curle has been North British Distillery Chairman since 2002, is an advisor to the UK Board of Trade, and was previously Scotch Whisky Association Chairman.
Edrington Chairman Crawford Gillies said: “Ian has led Edrington to become one of the world’s leading international premium spirit companies. On behalf of the board of directors, I want to thank him for his 32 years of outstanding service, and particularly the 15 years in which he has been a wise and inspiring chief executive.
“Scott is the right leader to build on Ian’s hugely successful tenure and help write the next chapter of Edrington’s history.”
“Ian exemplifies the Edrington ethos of ‘giving more’ and his vision has transformed Edrington, positioning the company well for the great opportunities that lie ahead. We wish him a very happy retirement, together with his wife and family.”
Scott McCroskie will take the role of CEO from 1 April 2019.
Gillies added: “Scott has accumulated a wealth of experience during 20 years in senior roles in the drinks industry. As an Edrington board director and Managing Director of The Macallan, he has delivered remarkable success and contributed greatly to the business.
“He is the right leader to build on Ian’s hugely successful tenure and help write the next chapter of Edrington’s history.”
Under Curle, Edrington has seen impressive growth and established itself as a leading premium spirits brand. During this time, said Edrington, The Macallan has become the world’s most valuable single malt.
Ian Curle said: “It has been a privilege to have been part of a unique and genuinely leading organisation that contributes so much to the industry and so much to Scotland. I would like to thank the trustees of our principal owner, The Robertson Trust, for their support over many years.
“I have been fortunate to work with an exceptional group of people across our board and senior leadership team.
“Edrington’s best days lie ahead, and through Scott’s leadership it will continue to be an ambitious, dynamic business, and a cornerstone of the Scotch Whisky industry.”
Scott McCroskie commented: “It has been a privilege working with Ian over the past ten years. He has led Edrington to great success, and leaves an amazing legacy, not least with the new Macallan distillery.
“I am delighted to take on the CEO role from Ian, and fully intend to work with the team at Edrington to build on the strong position we have achieved under his leadership.”
