William Grant & Sons CEO Søren Hagh resigns after less than two years in role 

UK – William Grant & Sons has announced that its Chief Executive Officer, Søren Hagh, has stepped down from his position at the family-owned distiller. 

Hagh joined the company in January 2024 after more than a decade with Dutch brewer Heineken, where he served as regional president for Europe. At William Grant, he succeeded Glenn Gordon, who had temporarily resumed the CEO role following the departure of Simon Hunt in 2020. 

The company confirmed the development in a statement, saying: “The board wishes him [Hagh] well in his future endeavours.” A filing with the UK business register Companies House indicated that Hagh’s directorship was terminated on October 31, 2025. 

Following his departure, Chief Financial Officer Graeme Jenkins and Chief Commercial Officer Doug Bagley will jointly provide leadership and oversee company operations, supported by the executive board. 

During Hagh’s tenure, William Grant & Sons reported a 6.5% decline in revenue to £1.83 billion (US$2.12B) in 2024, while profit before tax fell by 30% to £388 million (US$448.65M). The company attributed the performance to challenging market conditions and continued industry-wide destocking. 

It said the decline also reflected ongoing investments in its brands and infrastructure, underscoring confidence in the long-term potential of the global spirits market. 

In September 2024, William Grant & Sons announced plans to acquire The Famous Grouse and Naked Malt Scotch whisky brands from Edrington, expanding its Scotch portfolio, which already includes Glenfiddich, Grant’s, and The Balvenie. 

The company also owns several other premium spirits, including Hendrick’s Gin, Sailor Jerry Rum, Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey, and Drambuie liqueur. 

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