BELFAST-based drinks firm and creative agency Drinksology Kirker Greer (DKG) has recruited a senior figure from BrewDog as it looks to grow its business across Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA).
Industry veteran Gordon Buchanan has been named as the company’s new director for EMEA and global travel retail.
The Belfast native’s 30-year career in the drinks industry includes roles with Diageo, Bacardi, Beam Suntory, Treasury Wine Estates, and most recently as regional controller for BrewDog, where he helped the Scottish company secure its status as one of Europe’s highest profile craft beer brands.
Founded by Steven Pattison and Richard Ryan in 2009, DKG has been responsible for designing some of the world’s best known distilleries and pubs.
It also manages its own growing portfolio of drinks brands as Kirker Greer Spirits, including Ukiyo Japanese Spirits, Jawbox Gin, Born Irish Whiskey, Bowsaw American Whiskey, and Kadoo Rum.
“After spending 17 years working in London, I returned to Belfast six years ago and was amazed by the transformation in the market and the rise of incredible home-grown brands – it was something I knew I wanted to be part of,” said Mr Buchanan.
“DKG is poised for a future filled with innovation and success; I was immediately drawn to the company’s agile, creative, visionary and entrepreneurial approach, and I’m excited to bring DKG’s award-winning brands to the EMEA market.”
DKG’s chief commercial and strategy officer, Ryan McFarland, said the appointment follows a 24 month period where the company has steadily built up its team and developed long term growth plans.
“Gordon’s proven track record of creativity and his ability to effectively engage with distributors and consumers across our key regions will be instrumental in achieving our ambitious growth objectives,” he said.
DKG also operate the ecommerce drinks platform Spiritly.com.
