Corby Spirit and Wine Names Industry Veteran as New CEO

Corby Spirit and Wine Limited's board of directors announces that Patrick O'Driscoll, president and chief executive officer of Corby, will retire, effective June 30, 2020 and that Nicolas Krantz has been appointed as his successor effective July 1, 2020. Krantz has also been appointed as a Corby director effective as of such date filling the vacancy created by O'Driscoll's departure.

A native of France, Nicolas Krantz is currently chief executive officer of Pernod Ricard Winemakers, Spain. Previously, Krantz was the chief financial officer of Pernod Ricard, EMEA & LATAM and held various executive roles with several Pernod Ricard affiliates and predecessor companies. He brings over 25 years of industry and financial experience to Corby. He has Master of Finance and Bachelor of Economics degrees, from Sorbonne University (Paris). O'Driscoll will assist Krantz with his transition into his new role in the months ahead.

"The Corby Board is pleased to have found a talented leader to replace Patrick and is looking forward to Nicolas joining the company. His strong leadership skills and significant industry experience should help us to continue to grow shareholder value. Nicolas will provide further momentum to Corby's development and growth within the Canadian and international spirit and wine industry," said George McCarthy, chairman of Corby's board of directors.

During O'Driscoll's ten-year term at Corby, the company secured the long-term representation rights for Absolut vodka, reignited the J.P. Wiser's Canadian whisky brand, acquired the Ungava Spirits brands and introduced numerous brand innovations. Under O'Driscoll's leadership, Corby also established itself as a meaningful wine industry player, expanded pursuit of growth opportunities outside Canada, adapted to new routes to market within Canada, deepened the company's sustainability & responsibility efforts, and refreshed both the corporate identity and head office location.  

"It has been a privilege to work alongside Patrick these past years. Amongst his many accomplishments while leading Corby, Patrick developed the strong, mutually beneficial relationship with our controlling shareholder Pernod Ricard that exists today. We congratulate Patrick on his retirement and wish him the best," said McCarthy.

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