Scottish whisky giant William Grant & Sons has finally commented on the departure of its CEO Søren Hagh – a week after the event.
Hagh previously worked at Heineken as President, Europe.
William Grant’s drinks brands include The Famous Grouse, Glenfiddich, The Balvenie, Grant’s, Drambuie and Hendrick’s gin.
William Grant lodged a “Termination of a Director Appointment” filing at Companies House a week ago that said the “date of termination” for Hagh was October 31.
However, the firm took until Friday to confirm the CEO’s departure — and refused to say whether it will search for a new chief executive.
William Grant & Sons said on Friday in a statement via external PR firm Porter Novelli: “Søren Hagh has resigned as CEO of the Company after two years leading the business.
“The Board wishes him well in his future endeavours.
“Going forward, Graeme Jenkins (CFO) and Doug Bagley (CCO) will provide leadership and be responsible for managing the Company’s business with the support of the Executive Board.”
Asked twice if the Scotch giant will now search for a new CEO, Porter Novelli said: “At this time, WG&S does not have any further comments to add, but we’ll be sure to let you know if that changes.”
William Grant & Sons in July reported a 6.5% decline in turnover to £1.834 billion, with profit before tax down 30% to £388 million, for the year ending December 31, 2024.
“In a year marked by industry-wide challenges, the decline in revenue (-6.5%) compared to 2023 is in line with market trends, including the continuation of significant destocking,” said William Grant of the results.
“The reduction in profit (-30%) reflects both these market conditions but also continued investment in the company’s brands and infrastructure, demonstrating confidence in the future of the spirits industry …”
Hagh said of the results: “2024 was a challenging year for the spirits industry, with both global economic conditions and continued destocking weighing heavily on performance in comparison to 2023.
“That being said, profits were broadly in line with 2022 and our confidence in the future of spirits means we have continued to invest in both our brands and distilleries for the long-term.”
Hagh’s appointed as William Grant & Sons CEO was announced on November 1, 2023, and he started the job on January 1, 2024.
Hagh took over from Glenn Gordon, who remained a non-executive director on the company’s board. Before Heineken, Hagh worked in executive roles with L’Oreal and Lego.
Separately, William Grant & Sons on Tuesday confirmed the appointment of Nestlé executive Grant McKenzie as Chief Network Distribution Officer and executive board member, joining William Grant on November 13, 2025.
“In a pivotal role for the business, Grant will lead the company’s Owned Distribution Companies Business Unit (ODC BU), ensuring the development and execution of its plans across all owned distribution markets, driving innovation, and delivering growth ambitions,” said William Grant.
“Highly regarded for his strategic vision, resilience, and ability to lead large, diverse teams through change, Grant brings with him more than 25 years of blue-chip FMCG leadership experience – including significant expertise in beverages and premium brands.
“Grant held marketing and sales positions at Unilever and L’Oréal, before joining Nestlé where he progressed through senior commercial and general management positions in Europe and North America.
“Most recently, Grant led a CHF 1.2bn Nestlé Waters and Premium Beverages business across eight European markets, overseeing 3,000 colleagues and driving the creation of a standalone division.
“In that role he has been instrumental in accelerating the growth of iconic premium brands such as Perrier, S. Pellegrino, and Acqua Panna, and has a proven track record in business transformation and commercial capability building as well as developing high-performing teams.”