Barker takes on MD role at William Grant & Sons UK as Greenwood promoted

William Grant & Sons (WG&S), has announced three changes to its leadership team in the UK and EMEA regions. Rita Greenwood, Managing Director of UK & Ireland has been promoted to the role of Managing Director of Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) while Neil Barker, current UK Commercial Director, assume the role of Managing Director of UK & Ireland, reporting directly to Greenwood. His former role has not yet been filled.
Given the scale and importance of the EMEA region, Greenwood will join the WG&S Executive Board and will also remain on the Board of William Grant & Sons France and William Grant & Sons UK.
Meanwhile Chris Mason will move to a new role within William Grant & Sons Corporate Affairs and will continue to Chair the William Grant & Sons UK Board.
These announcements come as a result of changes to the global commercial structure at WG&S, which now consists of three regional roles: a newly created EMEA region, the Americas, and Asia. WG&S CEO, Simon Hunt, said, “The new WG&S global commercial structure consolidates team responsibilities across markets, provides strong platforms for our common ways of working, and ensures that we are growing our own leadership capabilities internally. Rita brings with her a wealth of experience and expertise, gained working in senior positions across WG&S and will be an excellent addition to our Executive Board.”
According to Rita Greenwood, “The UK will continue to be a priority market for me, playing a critical role within the new EMEA region. Neil shares my passion for the UK business, and I am confident that this appointment will ensure both continuity of strategy and strong leadership within the UK team. I would like to take this opportunity to wish Neil every success in his new role, and thank him for his support as we continue into the next exciting phase of growth for the UK business.”
Neil Barker added, “Since joining the business earlier this year I have been overwhelmed by the passion and determination that goes into running this family-owned business. Taking on the role of Managing Director for the UK & Ireland is an exciting next step. I look forward to continuing the momentum that has been delivered to date in 2017, and driving forward our ambitious growth plans for the future, together with our key partners.”
Barker and Greenwood will begin three months of transition as the company begins the process to recruit for a new UK Commercial Director. http://www.williamgrant.com