MGP CEO Julie Francis joins board
Luxco owner MGP Ingredients has announced the appointment of Julie Francis, the company’s president and CEO, to its board of directors.
Francis officially joined the MGP’s board on 15 December. She was appointed CEO and president of the company in July 2025.
She said: “I am honoured to join the MGP Board. Having worked closely with the board since becoming CEO, I welcome the opportunity to contribute as a director.
“Together, we will continue to build on MGP’s strong heritage, advance our long-term strategy, and create long-term value for all of our stakeholders.”
The announcement follows Karen Seaberg’s retirement effective from effective 14 December, who served on the board for 15 years.
Martin Roper, MGP Ingredients’ chairman of the board, commented on Seaberg’s departure: “Karen’s contributions to MGP span decades and reflect her deep commitment to the company. As a long-standing director, including serving as chairman of the board from 2014 to 2024, she has provided steady leadership through periods of significant growth and transformation.
“On behalf of the board, I want to express our sincere gratitude for her service, her stewardship, and her thoughtful counsel.”
Roper also welcomed Francis to the board, saying: “We are also pleased to welcome Julie to the board. Since joining as CEO, Julie has demonstrated strong leadership and strategic focus, and her perspective from leading the organisation will further strengthen the board as we continue to execute our long-term strategy.”
Seaberg reflected on her retirement: “Serving on the MGP board has been a meaningful part of my life, and I am deeply proud of the company’s evolution and the people who make it special.
“MGP’s roots in Atchison and my family’s history with the company have always been close to my heart, and I feel this is the right time for a thoughtful transition given the significant progress the company has made in attracting and retaining the leadership and talent to execute the next phase of its vision.
“I look forward to continuing my support of MGP and the Atchison community in new ways.”
MGP operates distilleries in Indiana and Kentucky, as well as a joint venture Tequila distillery in Arandas, Mexico.
The company also has bottling operations located in Missouri, Ohio, and Northern Ireland.
Its brand portfolio includes Penelope, Rebel, Remus, and Yellowstone Bourbons, as well as El Mayor and Cortada Tequilas, all under the Luxco umbrella.
Earlier this year, the company reported a 19% decline in third-quarter (Q3) sales.
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