Brown-Forman, the company behind the Jack Daniel’s family of brands, has announced the appointment of Marshall Farrer as the new chair of the board.  

A fifth-generation descendant of the founder of the company, Farrer will take over the role in July, succeeding Campbell Brown. 

The changes are subject to their re-election to the board.  

Farrer began his tenure with Brown-Forman in 1998, starting as a market manager in the wine division in California.  

He has held roles with increasing responsibility, including director of Latin America and the Caribbean, managing director for Australia, New Zealand, and South Pacific, and president of Europe. 

Farrer has been credited with the global expansion of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey and managed Brown-Forman's global travel retail business.  

In 2023, he was appointed executive vice president and became the company's first chief strategic growth officer. 

Farrer will be the eleventh Brown family member and the third from the fifth generation to chair the board. 

Brown-Forman president and CEO Lawson Whiting said: “Campbell has been a strategic thought partner to me for many years. His unique perspective as a fifth-generation Brown family member and a leader with brand and commercial experience has been invaluable. 

“As we look to the future, Marshall’s strategic vision and deep industry expertise will be key as we navigate the next chapter of growth at Brown-Forman.” 

In a statement, Brown-Forman said Mr Brown oversaw the company's portfolio expansion including the acquisitions of Gin Mare and Diplomático rum.  

It added Brown led the company through “significant volatility” marked by the pandemic, supply chain disruptions, macroeconomic challenges, and tariffs on American whiskey, the company noted.