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Brockmans founder becomes Compass Box chairman
Dr Alan Rutherford OBE will retire as chairman of Scotch producer Compass Box after 18 years, with Brockmans Gin founder Neil Everitt taking over the role.
Rutherford will retire as chairman on 31 March 2025, at the close of the company’s financial year.
During his 18-year-long tenure, Rutherford has guided Compass Box through significant growth and innovation and has been instrumental in shaping the company into a globally recognised brand.
With a career spanning over five decades, including roles as production director at United Distillers – now Diageo – he is said to have brought unmatched expertise and a steadfast commitment to Compass Box.
After his retirement, Rutherford will continue to lend his expertise to the company as an advisor, ensuring a seamless transition and ongoing strategic support.
Rutherford reflected on his time as chairman: “Serving as chairman of Compass Box has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my career. The team’s dedication to creativity and craftsmanship is unparalleled, and I am confident the company’s best days are still ahead.
“I am honoured to remain involved as an advisor and to watch Compass Box continue to push the boundaries of whisky making.”
Everitt will assume the role of chairman on 1 April 2025.
Known as the founder of Brockmans Gin, Everitt has previously held key roles at Allied Domecq and Stock Spirits Group and is said to bring a ‘wealth of industry expertise and strategic vision’ to his new role.
Everitt said: “I have long admired Compass Box for its bold approach to whisky making and its dedication to craftsmanship and creativity. It is a privilege to follow in Alan’s footsteps and to work with such a talented team. I look forward to contributing to the company’s ongoing success and exploring new opportunities for growth.”
Maurice Doyle, CEO of Compass Box, added: “Alan’s contributions to Compass Box cannot be overstated. His leadership has been a guiding light for the company, and we are deeply grateful for his years of service.
“At the same time, we are excited to welcome Neil to Compass Box. Together, we look forward to growing the business by making interesting, delicious whiskies for fellow whisky lovers that are different from the many mainstream offerings in the market.”
Compass Box was founded in 2000 by John Glaser, who left the company in May 2024.
Following Glaser’s departure, Compass Box reshaped its core whisky range and launched limited edition blend Secrets of Smoke late last year. James Saxon was also promoted to whisky making director.
In October 2024, the Scotch producer received a £35 million (US$45.4m) loan from Santander to support its international expansion.
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