William Ovens takes over from industry veteran, Andy Lane, who is retiring at the end of the year.

Ian Macleod Distillers has appointed William Ovens as Global Travel Retail Director, tasked with driving the growth strategy of the company’s premium business portfolio.

Ovens takes over from industry veteran, Andy Lane, who is retiring at the end of the year after a successful GTR career which includes 12 years at Ian Macleod. During this time his leadership resulted in year-on-year growth across all major operators. He also enjoyed spells with Beam Suntory and Whyte and Mackay.

Commercial Director at Quintessential Brands for the past four years where he set up the company’s GTR business, the division became one of the company’s largest under Ovens’ leadership. He also led the business expansion into over 90 new domestic markets, which helped bring about a step change in the scale of the business.

From 2001-2010, Ovens led Edrington’s GTR business, with the launch of the GTR exclusive 1824 Collection from The Macallan among the highlights. The Macallan and The Famous Grouse moved up the rankings to become global number two brands by volume in their respective categories.

Ian Macleod Distillers’ GTR-focused core brand portfolio is rooted in single malt and blended Scotch whisky, including Glengoyne Single Malt.

WELCOME RETURN

Ovens said: “I am delighted to return to the Scotch whisky industry, while retaining an involvement in the gin category. Ian Macleod Distillers is one of the most dynamic and respected companies within the drinks industry and I’m thrilled to join the business.

“Our brand portfolio is outstanding and the brands have all enjoyed strong growth in the GTR channel over recent years. We are currently working on a strategy to take them to the next level.”

Leonard Russell, Managing Director of Ian Macleod Distillers said: “We are delighted to welcome William to our business given his excellent track record of driving the growth of premium spirits in GTR. Our brands are in the best possible hands to achieve our ambitious goals in the channel.”

He added: “We wish Andy a happy retirement and thank him for his outstanding contribution to our business.”