Lachlan Boyle will swap peanuts for whisky from the middle of May.
Lachlan Boyle.
The founder of premium New Zealand spirits maker Reefton Distilling is stepping aside from her role as chief executive, almost a decade after establishing the company.
Patsy Bass will hand over the reins to Pic’s Peanut Butter chief financial officer Lachlan Boyle from May 11.
Patsy Bass.
Bass said the appointment marked the company’s next phase of growth, following the milestone of releasing its first single malt whisky, Moonlight Creek ‘Pioneer’.
It is Boyle’s first CEO role, but Bass noted his extensive commercial and industry experience.
“As CFO at Pic’s Peanut Butter, he has helped guide the company through strong national growth, and his earlier tenure at Lion provided deep expertise in premium alcohol brands and large-scale distribution. Boyle is an outstanding leader and the right person to guide Reefton Distilling Co through its next phase,” she said.
Boyle said he was joining the company “at an exciting inflexion point”, with Moonlight Creek ‘Pioneer’ marking the start of an important new chapter. “My focus is straightforward: build on the work already done, strengthen our commercial capability, and ensure these much-loved brands continue to grow sustainably and profitably.”
Bass will transition into the role of general manager of marketing, and will remain the public face of the company.
Chair Shane Edmond acknowledged Bass’ “extraordinary contribution”, saying her relentless commitment and inspiring innovation created a business many believed was impossible.
Under Bass’ leadership, Little Biddy Gin became the number two premium gin brand in New Zealand, and won international awards.
This is supplied content and not commissioned or paid for by NBR.
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