The whiskey distiller WhistlePig has announced that CEO Jeff Kozak has stepped down after 10 years of outstanding leadership to pursue other opportunities. While the board of directors conducts a national search for his successor, Kozak will continue to serve as a board adviser and take on a role as consultant to the company.
“The board of directors is grateful for Jeff’s contributions over the past 10 years, which have helped establish WhistlePig as a distinctive leader in the super premium American whiskey category and grow our company to over $100 million in sales,” said co-founder and board chair Wilco Faessen. “We thank Jeff for his decade of service and look forward to seeing what’s next for him.”
Industry veteran and WhistlePig board member Marty Birkel will assume the role of interim CEO. He has deep experience working in the spirits industry, including holding senior management positions at Constellation Brands and Gallo.