Conor McQuaid to Succeed Ann Mukherjee at Pernod Ricard North America

Pernod Ricard appointed Conor McQuaid as CEO of North America (USA and Canada), succeeding Ann Mukherjee, who has decided to step down to focus her time and energy on her family’s well-being.

McQuaid is a 25-year veteran of Pernod Ricard, most 
recently serving as Executive Vice President Sustainability & Responsibility, Communications and 
Public Affairs and as a member of Pernod Ricard’s Executive Committee. He previously served as Chairman and CEO of Irish Distillers (Jameson) and Executive Vice President Global Business Development. 

In a statement, Alexandre Ricard, Chairman and CEO of Pernod Ricard, said:

“The U.S. continues to be our No. 1 market, and Conor brings a unique skillset from his 25 years at Pernod Ricard that is perfectly suited to continue our transformation in such a dynamic market. He has a deep understanding of every aspect of our business and a proven record of execution. His leadership and the instrumental role he played in the success of Jameson, particularly in the US, underscore his ability to further advance Pernod Ricard’s ambitions in North America.” 

Mukherjee leaves McQuaid an organization with "a strong foundation of achievements in the evolution of our portfolio strategy and brand marketing effectiveness across the North American market.”

Chris Swonger, president/CEO, Distilled Spirits Council of the U.S. and Responsibility.org, thanked Mukherjee for her service and leadership as vice chair of the DISCUS board of directors "where she provided important guidance on critical initiatives from making the industry more inclusive and diverse, advancing sustainability efforts, and modernizing the marketplace for spirits brands and consumers. "But perhaps most importantly," Swonger continued, "we thank Ann for the positive impact she has had on our industry’s efforts to increase responsibility, eliminate drunk driving and combat underage drinking. She has been a light to all in the industry who have had the privilege to work with her, and we will miss her passion and determination to set the industry on a path for growth and future success."

Swonger said he looked forward to working with McQuaid "to further strengthen and unite the spirits industry. With more than 25 years of spirits experience, Conor’s expertise in the global spirits industry will foster continued success for Pernod Ricard and the spirits sector as a whole.”