Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers (MSWD) has announced the appointment of Niel Hendriksz as its new Managing Director, succeeding Richard Bedford in the role.
Hendriksz, who joined the business in 2018 following senior roles at Moët Hennessy and Edrington, stepped into the position of Sales Director in 2019. Since then, he has played a key role in shaping the company’s current identity—driving portfolio development and expanding MSWD’s footprint across international markets.
“I didn’t necessarily join the business for what it was then,” said Niel Hendriksz. “But the long-term vision was clear and beyond what existed at the time. To now help lead that vision forward, with a team and portfolio we truly believe in, is a privilege.”
Central to MSWD’s operations is Aberargie Distillery, situated on the Morrison family’s farm near Perth. Marking the family’s return to distilling following the 1994 sale of Morrison Bowmore to Suntory, the distillery filled its first cask in 2017. With the inaugural Aberargie single malt release scheduled for 2026,, Hendriksz will be instrumental in bringing the long-anticipated whisky to market.
Chairman Jamie Morrison said, “Niel has played a pivotal role in shaping our brands and expanding our reach, and I’m delighted to welcome him as Managing Director. He brings energy, strategic clarity, and a strong belief in what we stand for. His leadership will be vital as we continue to build a Scotch whisky business with a long-term, global vision. I would like to thank Richard for his excellent contribution and he will continue to be involved in the business going forward.”
Niel Hendriksz adds, “We’re a small, but ambitious, family-owned company. In the coming months we will work together to bring the Aberargie brand to life, and we are beyond excited to share it with the world.”