Lisa Roper Wicker has been named director of distilling for Kentucky-based Whiskey Thief Distilling Co. 

Wicker is well traveled in the whiskey industry, having managed production at Brooklyn-based Widow Jane, master distiller at Garrard County Distilling Co. and consulting for many other distilleries.

“Lisa is someone we’ve known for a while, and are excited to bring her to Whiskey Thief to grow distilling, both in production quantity and quality, and be part of the team to develop the future of the brand,” Walter Zausch, who purchased Whiskey Thief four years ago, told The Spirits Business. “Her experience is not only with large distilleries, but craft handmade pot distillation, as well as even farming heirloom grain, which we farm in Franklin County. Lisa is a natural fit for Whiskey Thief. We are also excited for her to help us inform and grow our product strategy.”

Wicker’s time at Garrard County Distilling was brief, as the company was hit earlier this year with a $2.2 million lawsuit by the contractor that built the distillery.

Following this departure, she consulted with other distilleries through her own firm Saints & Monsters.

She joins Whiskey Thief just as the distillery has opened a second location, a tasting room on historic Distillery Row in Louisville.

“I’m impressed by the brand, distillery and tasting room, and the reputation Walter has built for Whiskey Thief in only five years as owner and CEO,” Wicker told The Spirits Business. “Add in a team of great people, delicious whiskey thieved straight from the barrel, goats, and live music; it’s a privilege to join this authentically Kentucky team. I am excited to start.”

Read more: Widow Jane Announces Departure of Distiller Lisa Wicker