Drinks Ireland, the Ibec group that represents the Irish drinks sector, said today that Claire Tolan from Irish Distillers has been elected to a two-year term as Chair of the organisation.
Ms Tolan will take over the post from Pat Rigney, founder and managing director of “The Shed Distillery of PJ Rigney”, based in Co Leitrim.
Claire Tolan is Managing Director – Ireland at Irish Distillers, which is owned by Pernod Ricard. She is responsible for the sales, marketing, and distribution of their portfolio of premium spirits across the island of Ireland.
She began her career in Irish whiskey in 1998 with the Jameson Graduate Programme as a Brand Ambassador in San Francisco where she progressed, joining the international team in 2007.
Claire Tolan said she was excited to represent such a dynamic and innovative sector focused on the quality and heritage of their brands, driven by the passion and commitment of colleagues across the industry.
“However, the last two years have seen extremely challenging for the drinks sector, in particular in relation to introduction of tariffs and the increasing regulatory burden on drinks manufacturers and suppliers,” Ms Tolan said.
She said the country’s drinks industry plays a vital role in both the country’s economy and society, sustaining employment across the country, driving export success, and showcasing Irish excellence internationally.
“The industry has consistently shown its resilience. Adapting to changing market conditions, investing in innovation, and responding to evolving consumer expectations,” she said.
“Our ability to evolve while maintaining the highest standards of quality and responsibility has been central to the sector’s continued success and its confidence in the future,” she added.
The Director of Drinks Ireland Cormac Healy said Ms Tolan’s depth of experience and knowledge of the sector makes her exceptionally well placed to lead the industry at such a pivotal time.