Campari Group Executive Patrick Piana appointed President of Spirits Europe 

EUROPE – Patrick Piana, managing director of Europe at Campari Group, has been appointed president of Spirits Europe, succeeding Rémy Cointreau executive Ian McLernon after the completion of his two-year term at the helm of the trade body. 

Piana will lead Spirits Europe for the next two years, taking over at a time when the European spirits sector is navigating geopolitical uncertainty and economic volatility. 

Based in Milan, he joined Campari Group in 2021 and assumed the role of managing director for Europe in 2024. 

Commenting on his appointment, Piana said: “It is a great honour to lead Spirits Europe and represent a sector renowned worldwide for its quality, craftsmanship, innovation and export success, as well as for its role in fostering connection and conviviality across societies.” 

He also acknowledged his predecessor’s contribution, saying: “I would also like to pay tribute to Ian McLernon for his leadership and dedication in guiding the organisation through a particularly challenging period.” 

Piana brings more than three decades of experience in the beverage industry. Before joining Campari Group, he served as chief executive officer of Fratelli Branca Distillerie and previously held senior positions at Philip Morris, Moët Hennessy, Pernod Ricard and Rémy Cointreau. 

As president, Piana will continue the work initiated under McLernon and support efforts aimed at strengthening and expanding Europe’s spirits industry in both European Union and international markets. 

“From farm to glass, spirits are deeply rooted in Europe’s culture, traditions and way of life. They contribute to local economies, support agricultural communities and enrich hospitality and tourism experiences across the continent, while promoting social interaction within a strong culture of responsibility,” he said. 

Piana noted that the sector faces growing challenges arising from global uncertainty. “At a time of geopolitical tensions and economic volatility, my priority will be to drive forward our sector’s ambitious agenda,” he said. 

He added that his priorities include “accelerating our sustainability efforts, defending and expanding market access, advancing consumer information through digital labelling, fostering innovation and further strengthening our long-standing commitment to responsible drinking, while also ensuring proper recognition of the sector’s wider contribution to culture, communities and convivial social interaction.” 

Piana also pledged to work closely with European Union policymakers in supporting the industry. 

“Europe’s spirits sector is a remarkable success story. Together, we will continue to promote its heritage, strengthen its competitiveness and unlock opportunities for future growth,” he said. 

Spirits Europe, the leading representative body for the European spirits industry, unveiled its Objective 2030 roadmap at the Spirits Europe Summit 2024 to support the sector’s competitiveness, resilience and long-term growth. 

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