Rennie Donaldson (credit: Eden Mill St Andrews)

The announcement comes under the leadership of its chair, Stella Morse.

Mr Donaldson joined Eden Mill as chief operating officer in February last year. Before that he significant positions at Glasgow’s family-owned spirits giant, William Grant & Sons, overseeing brands like Glenfiddich, The Balvenie, and Hendrick’s Gin. His initial foray into the spirits realm began as a group financial controller at Scottish spirits group Edrington, known for its ownership of iconic brands such as The Macallan and The Famous Grouse.

Expressing his enthusiasm about the new role, Mr Donaldson stated: “I have spent eleven years of my career working for two of Scotland’s most notable spirits businesses and bring with me a personal ambition to secure Eden Mill’s successful future offering premium Scottish gin and single malt whisky brands to the global market.”

Stella Morse, chair of Eden Mill, said: “There is nobody better or more experienced to lead Eden Mill’s future growth and success than Rennie Donaldson and I am delighted to announce his new position of CEO at such an exciting and pertinent time for the business.

“As work continues on our new iconic distillery and visitor centre in St Andrews, the executive leadership team – led by Rennie – will support our commercial growth with a drive to reposition and premiumise Eden Mill’s portfolio within the Scotch whisky and gin category, driving international distribution and building our reputation particularly within the US and Asian markets.”

This development aligns with Eden Mill’s plans, which include expanding its international trade reach, rebranding its spirits collection, and inaugurating the new distillery and visitor centre located at the University of St Andrews Eden Campus, with a slated launch in summer 2024.