Four Pillars Co-founder and Head Distiller Cameron Mackenzie has announced he is leaving the business after just over a decade on the stills.
Sarah Prowse, who has been working alongside Mackenzie since 2020, will take over as Head of Production and Distilling.
Speaking about Mackenzie, Lion CEO Sam Fischer said: “After an incredible decade with Four Pillars, founder and Head Distiller, Cameron Mackenzie, has decided it’s time to step away from the business. We are deeply grateful for his vision, passion, and leadership that have shaped Four Pillars into what it is today.
“Amongst his many accomplishments, Cameron has been named IWSC Master Distiller of the Year (2023) was inducted into the Australian Distillers Hall of Fame this year and is the master behind Four Pillars winning International Gin Producer of the Year at the International Wine & Spirit Competition three times (2019, 2020 & 2023).
“Sarah Prowse, Head of Production and Distilling, will continue to lead the world-class distilling team as she has done since 2022 doing so with a commitment to quality and passion for innovation which is so much a part of the Four Pillars DNA.
“Sarah has been with the business since 2020 as Production Manager and Distiller, following 15 years in winemaking producing wine in various regions from the Yarra Valley to Bordeaux. Since joining Four Pillars, Sarah has overseen the growth of the brand to beyond 1 million bottles per year. She has mentored countless people within the industry and, alongside Cameron, was installed into the prestigious Gin Guild last year – the world’s oldest community of gin-makers and leaders, established in London in 1638.
“I would like to personally thank Cameron for his many contributions and wish him well as he enjoys a well-earned long break.”
Mackenzie, who founded Four Pillars in 2013 with Stuart Gregor and Matt Jones, said in an email to staff: “Today I announce my departure from Four Pillars – it’s time to step away.
“As you would have noticed over the last 12 months, I have made myself beautifully obsolete. I know I look busy as I prance around the distillery holding a manila folder, but the reality is that the folder is empty and I only come in for the free coffee and to bother you all. It’s from the George Costanza play book.
“I can’t think of a more worthy successor than Sarah to pass the baton (or the still) over to. Prowsey and I have worked side by side since 2020, and she has been instrumental in the growth of Four Pillars without compromising quality, with the consistency of these gins reflected in the countless awards and accolades that the distillery receives each year. For now, I am taking a holiday and then a long break, I wish nothing but the best for the Four Pillars brand and team and am confident I’m leaving the brand in the very best of hands.”