Boatyard appoints Tim Herlihy to drive US growth
Northern Ireland-based Boatyard Double Gin has named Tim Herlihy US national sales and advocacy manager.
In the newly-created role, the Lost Irish Whiskey founder will work with Banfi Wines & Spirits and its network of distributors to expand Boatyard Double Gin’s presence in the US on-trade.
Declan McGurk, managing director at The Boatyard Distillery, said: “There is tremendous momentum behind Boatyard, and Tim’s appointment reflects our commitment to investing in the opportunities ahead. His enthusiasm, relationships, and proven track record in the industry make him a natural fit for our team, and we are excited to have him represent the brand across the US market.”
Herlihy is now tasked with ‘expanding distribution, strengthening on-premise partnerships, and increasing visibility among bartenders, trade professionals, and consumers.’
He brings more than 15 years of spirits industry experience to the position, including stints at William Grant & Sons and Cooley Distillery.
“Having a dedicated sales resource embedded in the market meaningfully elevates how we show up day to day,” said Jennifer Engel, chief commercial and strategy officer at Banfi Wines & Spirits. “It improves consistency, strengthens execution across key accounts, and ensures the brand is present where it matters most. With Tim working alongside our team and distributor partners, we’re able to drive more impactful, real-time engagement in-market and accelerate commercial growth.”
Herlihy will continue to work with Lost Irish Whiskey, which he co-created in 2022 in partnership with childhood friend Neil Sands and Mexican spirits company Casa Lumbre.
The Boatyard Distillery was founded in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, in 2016 by Joe McGirr. It produces a range of organic gins, as well as a ‘field-to-bottle’ vodka.
In 2023, it became the first B-Corp certified distillery on the island of Ireland.
The brand first partnered with New York City-based Banfi Wines & Spirits in 2025, launching in 13 US states initially ahead of a nationwide rollout.
