Big changes at Macallan owner Edrington

Edrington chief executive Ian Curle

Glasgow-based drinks company Edrington — owner of The Macallan, Highland Park and Famous Grouse — has announced a number changes in its executive ranks.

Edrington said Bill Farrar, managing director its super premium division, will leave the firm in June 2017 to pursue new business interests. 

Farrar’s career with Edrington stretches back to 1989 and since then he has led marketing strategy for several of the company’s most successful spirit brands.

Farrar joined the Edrington board in 2003 and has overseen the growth of The Macallan and the development of Edrington’s international distribution businesses. 

Paul Ross will succeed Farrar as managing director of super premium, transferring from his current assignment as president of Edrington Americas.

Ross will be succeeded as president of Edrington Americas by Chris Spalding, who was heavily involved in the creation of Edrington Americas and is currently commercial director, North America.

Edrington also named Aristotelis ‘Tellis’ Baroutsis as managing director of the company’s regional power brands business unit, which is responsible for The Famous Grouse and Cutty Sark blended Scotch whiskies and Brugal rum.

Tellis joined Edrington as managing director of Edrington Nordics before transferring to Singapore to establish the company’s global travel retail business. 

Igor Boyadjian replaces Tellis as managing director of Edrington Global Travel Retail in Singapore.

Boyadjian was co-owner of the Edrington Fix joint venture, based in Dubai.

Edrington chief executive Ian Curle said: “Bill has been a friend and colleague for nearly thirty years, during which time he has contributed strongly to Edrington’s growth and success.

“I would like to thank him for his valued support and commitment, and wish him all the best in his future business interests.

“When Edrington moves into its new global headquarters in Glasgow in the spring, I am delighted that we will be joined by two of our most experienced international leaders in global roles.”

In July, Edrington said revenues for the year to March 31 were flat at £574.6 million amid a challenging environment and that profit for the year fell to £72.7 million from £79.7 million.