Louisville-based global spirits company, Brown-Forman, has made significant strides under the leadership of Lawson Whiting. Whiting has been in the main leadership role at Brown-Forman since 2018 and on its executive team since 2013.
Brown-Forman is known for its diverse brand portfolio that includes popular labels like Jack Daniel's, Woodford Reserve, and Old Forester. Under Whiting's guidance, the company has further diversified by acquiring Gin Mare for approximately $500 million in September and Diplomático Rum in January 2023.
Whiting's efforts towards ethical business practices have also come to light as he was recently named to Ethisphere's list of World’s Most Ethical Companies. Ethisphere is a company that defines and measures corporate ethical standards while promoting best practices.
In addition to these achievements, the Brown-forman Foundation also announced its largest investment since its formation in 2018. The foundation will invest $50 million over a ten-year period into five organizations based out of West Louisville.
This investment aligns with the foundation's mission to create a positive impact on society through community initiatives focused on education, environmental sustainability, social responsibility as well as diversity & inclusion.
Whiting expressed his gratitude toward this recognition from Ethisphere stating "We believe that doing what’s right is not only good business but it’s fundamental to our success". He further added "Our values guide us every day as we strive to be responsible stewards of our brands while making a positive contribution to society."
With continued efforts towards diversification and ethical business practices combined with investments towards societal betterment initiatives such as those being made by the Brown-forman Foundation - it appears that Lawson Whiting and his team are setting an example for other companies around the world.