UK. Whyte & Mackay has appointed a new Chief Executive Officer to accelerate the firm’s domestic and international expansion plans. John Beard replaces Ashwin Malik, who is returning to India with his family.
Beard joined the whisky and vodka business on 23 March after spending 19 years at Bacardi and its associated companies. He has worked in a variety of sales, marketing and general management roles, including UK Sales Director, before taking up the post of Regional Director for Eastern Europe. The latter role required him to look after the travel retail sector for the firm.
Beard subsequently returned to the UK where he spent the last three years as UK CEO of Bacardi Brown-Forman.
He replaces Ashwin Malik, who had spent almost two years in Scotland helping to build the business after it was bought by Indian entrepreneur [and UB Group Chairman] Vijay Mallya in 2007.
Whyte & Mackay’s new CEO John Beard with the company portfolio, which includes Pinky, Dalmore, and GlayvaCommenting on his new role, Beard said: “I have been really impressed with Whyte & Mackay’s performance and its commitment to building not only strong brands, but strong international brands.
“I have met with Dr Mallya personally, and there is no doubt in my mind that he is committed to this company, committed to building great premium brands, and committed to making Whyte & Mackay a major international spirits company. I am looking forward to doing my bit to help that become a reality.”
On leaving Malik said: “I have enjoyed my time here in Scotland and have met many wonderful people, but the time is right to return to India with my family.”
Under Malik’s leadership the Whyte & Mackay business has gone from strength, recovering from an £18 million loss to a £25 million profit in 18 months. The branded side of the business has also seen growth of more than +30% in less than two years.
The company established new distributor agreements in Australia, India, Russia, the UAE, South Africa the US. Besides establishing new subsidiary companies and regional offices in Dubai, Taiwan and the US, it has also enhanced its Glasgow-based global marketing team, which now consists of nine people.
In 2008, the company had its best-ever performance at the International Wine & Spirits Competition, winning two trophies and 28 medals including 5 ‘Best in Class’ golds.
Beard concluded: “Ashwin has done a terrific job and he leaves behind an ambitious business and many friends in the Scotch whisky industry. We wish him well.”
Beard’s appointment follows the appointment in January of a new Global Sales and Marketing Director Nick Garland, who joined the company from Beam Global.
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MORE STORIES ON WHYTE & MACKAY
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Whyte & Mackay announces new Travel Retail Director – 04/09/08
