Brown-Forman Announces President & CEO Lawson Whiting to Retire

The company's Board of Directors has started a search for his successor and will consider both internal and external candidates. The process will be led by the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee, chaired by Tracy Skeans.

After the new CEO is appointed, Whiting will continue to serve in an advisory role for a period of time to help ensure a smooth leadership transition and business continuity.

Read More:CoStar Group Promotes Robin Rossmann to Chief Financial Officer 

“On behalf of the Board and the Brown family, I want to thank Lawson for his nearly 30 years of dedication to Brown-Forman,” said Marshall B. Farrer, Chairman of Brown-Forman. “Lawson has been a steadfast steward of founder George Garvin Brown’s vision – leading this company through an era of macro challenges and change with a clear and consistent vision for building the most premium portfolio in the industry and ensuring there was ‘Nothing Better in the Market.’

Farrer added, “We appreciate Lawson giving us ample notice of his decision to retire, as it allows the Board the opportunity to conduct a robust review of both internal and external talent. As we begin our search pursuant to our succession process, we do so with confidence in our business, our people, and our opportunities to create long-term value for all Brown-Forman stakeholders.

“It has been the privilege of a lifetime to lead Brown-Forman,” said Lawson Whiting, President and Chief Executive Officer of Brown-Forman. “From my earliest days with the company to my time as CEO, my tenure has been defined by the extraordinary people I have worked alongside. We are entering this transition from a position of strength. Brown-Forman has principled leadership, a foundation of iconic brands, and a global team with immense depth and talent.

About Brown-Forman

Founded in 1870 and headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, Brown-Forman is a global spirits company with more than 155 years of history. Its portfolio includes well known brands such as Jack Daniel's, Woodford Reserve, Old Forester, Herradura, el Jimador, Diplomático Rum, Gin Mare, Fords Gin, Chambord, Slane and several premium Scotch whisky brands.

Read More:REPAY Appoints Zach Sadek to its Board of Directors