Michael McShane, SVP, Managing Director of Australia, New Zealand and Southeast Asia will retire from Brown-Forman this October. Thomas Hinrichs, President, Europe/ANZSEA/NASIA announced the news this morning.

McShane has been at Brown-Forman for the last 17 years, starting out as a Finance Manager, before moving to a Marketing Director role and then onto Managing Director. Under McShane’s leadership, the Jack Daniel’s brand has become Australia’s most valuable spirits brand based on share and value growth.

“I have had the pleasure of working with Michael for the last several years and saw first-hand how his passion for the industry and capabilities for the company have had tremendous impact. Most recently under his leadership, the Australia business has been transformed and returned to growth despite significant economic headwinds. Just last year, Michael and his team were recognised by the Australian Beverage Industry as the ‘Supplier of the Year’ in a crowded wine, beer, and spirits field,” Hinrichs said.

Michael is also Chair of the Distilled Spirits Industry Council of Australia and a Director of DrinkWise Australia. Previously he was a Chair of the Asia Pacific Spirits and Wine Alliance.

“Michael has agreed to remain in his role until the end of October to provide adequate time to name his successor. This also gives us time to thank him for his service, so please join me in expressing gratitude for his many contributions and wishing him all the best as he steps into the next phase of his life,” Hinrichs added.

McShane told drinks bulletin that he hopes to continue both his roles with DSICA and DrinkWise, while he looks for his next challenge.

“Working for Brown-Forman has been an absolute privilege and a fantastic experience, and I just look forward to the next chapter!” McShane said.