William Grant tight-lipped on CEO departure
Søren Hagh, CEO of William Grant & Sons, has left the company less than two years after taking up the position.
Hagh’s departure from the company was confirmed via a Termination of Appointment notice filed on Companies House on Friday 31 October. However, the firm has so far refused to comment and has provided no explanation for the senior leader’s departure or any indication of who will helm the firm going forward.
Hagh joined the Glenfiddich owner on 1 January 2024 from Heineken, where he held the position of president, Europe, and was responsible for all of the brewing giant’s operations in the region.
He took over the role from Glenn Gordon, who remained as a non-executive director on the board.
In July, William Grant & Sons, which owns brands such as Monkey Shoulder, Silent Pool gin, and Tullamore Dew whiskey, reported a 30% fall in profits and a 6.5% drop in turnover for the year ending 31 December 2024.
At the time, Hagh said: “2024 was a challenging year for the spirits industry, with both global economic conditions and continued destocking weighing heavily on performance in comparison to 2023.
“That being said, profits were broadly in line with 2022 and our confidence in the future of spirits means we have continued to invest in both our brands and distilleries for the long term.”
The firm had just completed its acquisition of The Famous Grouse and Naked Malts from The Macallan owner Edrington.
While William Grant & Sons has remained tight-lipped on the subject of Hagh’s exit, the company has announced the appointment of Grant McKenzie as its new chief network distribution officer and executive board member, effective 13 November.
The role will see McKenzie lead the company’s Owned Distribution Companies Business Unit, focusing on driving growth and innovation.
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