Roy Danis steps in as CEO of ‘craft’ whiskey

Roy Danis, former managing director of Campari America, has been appointed chief executive officer of “craft” brand Clyde May’s Whiskey.

The brand, known as “Alabama’s Official State Spirit”, is owned by Conecuh Ridge Distillery and is a blend of five- and six-year-old Bourbon with added apple extract.

Danis resigned from Campari America in December last year, with Jean-Jacques Dubau stepping into the MD role on a temporary basis. Ugo Fiorenzo was later appointed permanent replacement.

Prior to Campari, Danis served as managing director for Jose Cuervo in North America, during which time the company launched Cuervo Silver, and also executive vice president of sales and marketing for W.J. Deutsch & Sons, when he oversaw the launch of Yellow Tail Bourbon.

“With Roy Danis, we have the right leader at the right time to propel Clyde May’s forward,” said James J. Ammeen, chairman of Conecuh Ridge Distillery.

“His industry expertise is unmatched. Clyde May’s is poised to explode – its sales and distribution are both expanding rapidly. And Roy has spent an impressive career elevating and differentiating brands in a very competitive space. Our best is yet to come.”