Brown‑Forman Corporation (NYSE: BFA, BFB) announced Lawson Whiting has decided to retire from his role as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective upon the appointment of a successor. 

The Brown‑Forman Board of Directors has initiated a search pursuant to its succession process that will consider internal and external candidates. The process will be led by the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee, which is chaired by Tracy Skeans. Whiting will remain available to serve in an advisory capacity for a period of time following the appointment of a successor to ensure business continuity and support a smooth handover. 

“On behalf of the Board and the Brown family, I want to thank Lawson for his nearly 30 years of dedication to Brown‑Forman,” Marshall B. Farrer, Chairman of Brown‑Forman, said in a news release. “Lawson has been a steadfast steward of founder George Garvin Brown’s vision – leading this company through an era of macro challenges and change with a clear and consistent vision for building the most premium portfolio in the industry and ensuring there was ‘Nothing Better in the Market.’ 

“Under Lawson’s leadership, Jack Daniel’s extended its presence into new international markets and categories, Woodford Reserve grew into the world’s leading super-premium American whiskey, and our founding brand, Old Forester, tripled in volume and increased net sales six-fold over the last decade. Today, Brown‑Forman’s portfolio is one of the most respected in the global spirits industry. The Board is deeply grateful for his leadership and his commitment to the people and brands of Brown‑Forman.”

Farrer added, “We appreciate Lawson giving us ample notice of his decision to retire, as it allows the Board the opportunity to conduct a robust review of both internal and external talent. As we begin our search pursuant to our succession process, we do so with confidence in our business, our people, and our opportunities to create long-term value for all Brown‑Forman stakeholders. Lawson will continue to advance our strategic and operational priorities, including expanding our geographic footprint, building brands that resonate with consumers, and enhancing operational efficiency, while the Board conducts the succession process.”

“It has been the privilege of a lifetime to lead Brown‑Forman,” Whiting said “From my earliest days with the company to my time as CEO, my tenure has been defined by the extraordinary people I have worked alongside. We are entering this transition from a position of strength. Brown‑Forman has principled leadership, a foundation of iconic brands, and a global team with immense depth and talent. I have every confidence that the succession process will surface the right leader for Brown‑Forman’s next generation of growth, and I look forward to supporting a seamless handoff that ensures our momentum never wavers.”

Wolf Pen Branch, which represents a controlling interest in Brown‑Forman said, “We appreciate Lawson’s leadership and three decades of dedicated service to Brown‑Forman. We are confident in the competitive position and financial strength of the business and in the Board’s process underway to identify the next CEO to capitalize on growth opportunities for Brown‑Forman.” 

Brown‑Forman also reiterated today its fiscal 2027 outlook as disclosed on June 4, 2026.

Read more: Brown-Forman Announces Strategic Distribution Realignment

About Brown‑Forman Corporation

Brown-Forman Corporation has been building spirits brands for more than 150 years, with a team of approximately 5,400 employees worldwide. The company distributes beverages in more than 170 countries. Learn more at brown-forman.com.