Premium drinks firm Drinksology Kirker Greer (DKG) has appointed Ryan McFarland as its new Chief Commercial & Strategy Officer to drive both brand and geographic expansion.

In his new role, McFarland will sit on the Executive Board and expand the team.

As part of his five-year plan, he plans to build the business’s presence in global travel retail.

Prior to joining DKG, he was Growth and Innovation Director EMEA & APAC at Molson Coors Beverage. Prior to that, he served on the Western European Executive Team.

His experience also spans positions at Rémy Cointreau, Bacardi and Brown-Forman.

Belfast-based DKG comprises two divisions: brand management and distribution arm Kirker Greer Spirits, and marketing and branding agency Drinksology Creative.

Kirker Greer Spirits’ portfolio includes Ukiyo Japanese Spirits, Kirker Shamrock Whiskey, Ginato Italian Gin and Jawbox Irish Gin. 

Drinksology Creative has designed some of the industry’s most celebrated locations, including The Dead Rabbit in New York, The Johnnie Walker Experience in Edinburgh, and Roe & Co Distillery, Dublin. 

“The business is readying itself for growth, we are investing to make that happen and Ryan’s experience to date suits us perfectly to support this next stage,” said Steven Pattison, CEO of DKG.

“Having spent over 20 years in the industry, he has gained a great reputation for building high-performing teams and strong customer relationships. 

“He will use this experience to help develop and execute our growth strategies for not only the business but our brands too. 

“It is a very exciting time for DKG as we seek to unlock the huge potential that awaits us globally.” 

McFarland added: “Coming from Northern Ireland myself, it has always been my ambition to take a Belfast-based business to scale globally and I believe DKG has a portfolio of exceptional brands to do this, backed with a solid innovation pipeline, passionate people and a world of untapped opportunity. 

“I am starting to develop a clear strategic direction for the brands on a global scale, with an immediate focus on the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. 

“I look forward to executing that plan with not only the fantastic team DKG has already in place, but building that team too over the coming years.”

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