Brown-Forman Corporation has announced that Campbell P. Brown will step down as Chair of the Brown-Forman Board of Directors in July. Subject to his reelection at the annual meeting, he will continue to serve on the Board as a Director. Marshall B. Farrer, a fifth-generation descendent of the company’s founder and a current Director of the Board, will assume the role of Chair of the Board, subject to his reelection to the Board.
“It has been an honor to serve as Chair of the Board and to work alongside the many talented professionals who comprise Brown-Forman’s Board of Directors and Executive Leadership Team,” said Brown, in a press release. “Brown-Forman has always believed that thoughtful, well-planned leadership transitions strengthen our company for the long term. After working closely with Board leadership, the time is right to entrust the role of Chair to my cousin and fellow Board member, Marshall Farrer.”
During Brown’s tenure, Brown-Forman continued its premium portfolio reshaping through the acquisitions of Gin Mare and Diplomático Rum. Brown led the Board through periods of significant volatility, including a pandemic, supply chain disruptions, macroeconomic challenges and tariffs on American whiskey, and facilitated the selection and integration of four new Board members.
“Campbell has been a strategic thought partner to me for many years,” Brown-Forman President and CEO Lawson Whiting said. “His unique perspective as a fifth-generation Brown family member and a leader with brand and commercial experience has been invaluable. Throughout his years of service, from employee to Board member to Board Chair, Campbell has demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to Brown-Forman and its people.”
Whiting continued, “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. This transition represents the continuation of a legacy of stewardship that underscores the shared belief that there is truly ‘Nothing Better in the Market’ than Brown-Forman.”
Farrer will become the eleventh Brown family member and third fifth-generation family member to serve as Chair of the Board of Directors.
“Being named Chair of the Board is a profound honor, and I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me by my fellow Board members,” said Farrer, EVP, Chief Strategic Growth Officer, and Director. “I look forward to building on the strong foundation laid by Campbell and continuing our legacy of strategic growth.”
