Compass Box names new majority investor

Scotch whisky maker Compass Box has appointed former Bacardi executive Maurice Doyle as its new CEO and named London-based Caelum Capital as its majority shareholder.

Founded in London in 2000 by John Glaser, who also serves as whisky maker, the Scotch whisky blending house is known for its focus on ‘reinventing’ the Scotch category.

Glaser said: “With Maurice joining me at the helm, we are excited to double down on our determination to democratise the enjoyment of Scotch whisky, to continue releasing products that reveal the creative art behind blending.”

A spirits industry veteran, Doyle draws from a nearly 30-year career in marketing and commercial leadership in the global premium beverage industry for his new role as Compass Box CEO.

Doyle has previously held the position of president of incubation brands and global commerce for Bacardi, as well as roles in travel retail, commercial and marketing for the spirits company.

Prior to joining Bacardi, Doyle has served as chief marketing officer at William Grant & Sons, and as chief operating officer for Suntory’s non-alcoholic division for Africa, Middle East and Caribbean.

“I am delighted to be joining Compass Box,” said Doyle. “It is a brand that I have long admired as a pioneer within Scotch whisky. I have a huge amount of respect for John and what he has achieved.

“We have very similar values on what is important and have complementary skills and experiences. I can’t wait to start working with John, the talented team at Compass Box, our partners, customers, and supporters around the world.”

The news is accompanied by the announcement that investment firm Caelum Capital, which backs North American and European-based premium beverage businesses, is the company’s new majority investor.

The ‘significant’ investment from Caelum Capital will help fund Compass Box’s ambition to provide more opportunities to explore, experiment and innovate, with curiosity and creativity as its guiding lights. The investment value has not been disclosed.

Manish Rungta, founder and managing partner at Caelum Capital, said: “We are really excited to partner with Compass Box and build on the strong foundations created by John and his team.”

Compass Box has confirmed that Bacardi has sold its minority stake in the business.