WhistlePig chief executive Charles Gibb has left the US whiskey producer after eight months in the role, with the departure described as a “mutual” decision.
Gibb took up the CEO post at the Vermont-based business in June.
He replaced CEO Jeff Kozak, who had stepped down from the position to “pursue other opportunities” in January.
In a statement to Just Drinks, the company said: “After thoughtful discussions, Charles and WhistlePig Whiskey's board of directors have mutually agreed to part ways. We sincerely thank Charles for his contributions and service to WhistlePig during his tenure and wish him the very best in his future endeavours.”
WhistlePig’s chief financial officer, Alex Roberts, has assumed the top job. Roberts joined the business as CFO in December 2017, following roles in investment banking at Rothschild & Co, Tap Advisors and PME Capital.
“Alex brings extensive, deep knowledge of WhistlePig’s operations, having been integral to our strategy for eight years. We are focused on carrying momentum forward as the leader in luxury Rye Whiskey and will continue to prioritise business continuity and sustained performance,” the statement read.
According to WhistlePig, its whiskies are stocked at approximately 49,000 accounts globally, with “a vast majority” of its volumes sold within the US.
The brand also has a presence in the UK, France and Japan.
Roberts also commented on LinkedIn: “Eight years ago, I made the decision to leave investment banking and join WhistlePig, a small and relatively unknown whiskey brand at the time.
It felt like a crazy decision at the time, but it has proven to be an incredibly rewarding journey.
“During these years, I have had the privilege of working with an incredible team that has successfully grown WhistlePig over five times and established it as the leading luxury American whiskey brand. I am excited to lead the company into its next chapter as the new CEO of WhistlePig.”
WhistlePig sold a minority stake to Moët Hennessy, the wines and spirits division of LVMH, at the end of 2020.
At the time, the arrangement was described by WhistlePig as a “partnership”, with the size of the stake and financial terms not made public.
Just Drinks has asked WhistlePig Whiskey for an update on the company’s latest financial results.
