Ireland's Boatyard Distillery appoints new commercial director

Irish spirits maker the Boatyard Distillery has appointed Declan McGurk as commercial director to support its expansion into Europe and beyond. 

Declan will be based in the UK and will be responsible for the global development of the Boatyard Distillery, while also strengthening its local base and adding his expertise to product development.

His new role follows a seven-year tenure at the world-renowned Savoy Hotel in London. Under his stewardship, the hotel's American Bar claimed numerous industry awards. Prior to this he had a stint at premium spirits agency Speciality Brands, helping to grow rum brand Diplomático in the UK.

Founded in 2016 by Joe McGirr in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, the Boatyard Distillery's range includes Boatyard Double Gin, Boatyard Vodka and Boatyard Old Tom Gin. Its spirits are distributed in the UK by Speciality Brands.

Joe McGirr said: "We're thrilled to be welcoming Declan into the Boatyard family. Since our launch, we've enjoyed strong local growth and Declan's wealth of international expertise and innovative ideas will be a great asset as we embark on the next phase of our expansion."

Declan McGurk said: "I fell in love with the gin after a blind tasting in Belfast and it quickly became a favourite at The Savoy. To be joining a growing and ambitious Irish business that's also so close to home is genuinely a dream come true. I look forward to developing the Boatyard Distillery's position globally and sharing a Martini or two with you all."

21 October 2020 - Bethany Whymark