Ex-Campari US boss joins William Grant
Glenfiddich owner William Grant & Sons has appointed former Campari America managing director Melanie Batchelor as president of its US business.
Batchelor, who stepped into the new role this week (23 February), brings more than 25 years of drinks industry experience to Scottish spirits firm William Grant. She took over the position from James Casey, who has left the business.
“Mel brings exceptional experience and has a proven track record of leading with clarity, energy and heart,” said Grant McKenzie, chief network distribution officer at William Grant & Sons.
“We’re confident that her leadership and expertise will be instrumental in guiding our US team and strengthening the success of our global business in the years ahead.”
Batchelor left Campari Group in 2025 after 14 years at the Italian drinks company, which produces Aperol and Wild Turkey.
In her most recent position at Campari, Batchelor oversaw the US market as managing director from January 2023 to September 2025. She was also in charge of the Italian group’s Canadian business, holding the role of president of Campari Canada for three years (2020-2022).
Her earlier roles at Campari included head of marketing for the US, and managing director, vice-president of marketing, for Australia and Pacific.
Before Campari, she served 11 years at PepsiCo.
“Even in a rapidly shifting and often challenging environment, I look forward to leading the US business by strengthening our overall position as we head into our next phase of growth,” Batchelor added.
“Our success to date has been made possible by the dedication of our team and by extension, our distributor partners, and I’m energised by the opportunity to deepen those new and existing relationships in this role.
“Leading with a people‑first mindset – empowering our teams, supporting our partners, and working collaboratively with our global counterparts, will be central to how we navigate what comes next.”
In her new role, Batchelor will be responsible for leading William Grant’s US operations and growing brands such as Scotch whiskies Glenfiddich and Balvenie, Tullamore Dew Irish whiskey and Hendrick’s gin.
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