Stuart Gregor, the Co-Founder of Four Pillars and former President of the Australian Distillers Association will step up from his role as Non-Executive Director of Lark to become the distillery’s new MD and CEO.
Lark’s current CEO Satya (Sash) Sharma will step down as CEO on 31 December, having led the business for three years and driving the distillery forward to be a globally respected brand. Lark’s statement to the ASX said Sharma was leaving to “pursue a leadership opportunity with a major global player”.
Lark Chairman Domenic Panaccio said: “We are excited to have Stuart join as Lark’s next MD & CEO. Stuart already has a deep understanding of Lark through his role on our Board and has been intimately involved in the re-stage of our Brand as we embark on our exciting next chapter. Today’s announcement reflects our strong focus on effective succession planning, ensuring a smooth and orderly transition that positions Lark for continued success in its next phase of growth.
“Stuart combines deep category knowledge, proven entrepreneurial credentials, and global perspective with an unrivalled passion for Australian spirits. His leadership will accelerate Lark’s ambition to be recognised as a leader in new world whisky, while continuing to build on the exceptional legacy created under Satya’s stewardship.”
He added: “On behalf of the Board, I want to sincerely thank Sash for his outstanding leadership and commitment to Lark. He has navigated the business through a period of transformation and growth. During his tenure, Lark delivered consistent and sustainable results, expanded into key international markets, strengthened our portfolio offering, fortified our balance sheet and established an operational platform designed to deliver sustainable long-term value.
“Sash has also been instrumental in driving operational excellence, embedding strong governance, and elevating the Company to its position as Australia’s Number One Luxury Single Malt. We are delighted he will remain with Lark until year end, ensuring a seamless transition of leadership. He departs with our gratitude and very best wishes for the future.”
Gregor brings over 25 years of industry and brand experience to Lark having established Four Pillars as a globally recognised gin brand and co-founding PR and marketing firm Liquid Ideas.
Speaking about his new role Gregor said: “The opportunity to lead Lark is rare and exciting in the Australian distilling landscape and is the only one that would have attracted me back into the industry following the successful sale of Four Pillars to Lion.
“I’m genuinely excited about the future of Lark. Sash and the team have built a solid foundation, and now is the perfect time to leverage our position, grow the business and spread the Lark story across the globe.
“We have Australia’s most iconic legacy in Bill and Lyn Lark, and one of the country’s finest and most creative distillers in Chris Thomson crafting some of the world’s best whiskies. In addition, with the unique access to rare Seppeltsfield casks, our Tasmanian peat marsh and the whisky making super climate that Tasmania offers, we have everything we need to take this brand to new heights. I’m excited to lead Lark and the team for what will be an incredible period ahead.”
Outgoing CEO Sharma added: “It has been a privilege to lead Lark and to work with such a talented and passionate team over the past three years. I am grateful for the opportunity both professionally and personally. I am proud of what we have achieved and deeply grateful that together, we have strengthened the business, expanded our reach, and reinforced Lark’s position as Australia’s Number 1 Luxury Single Malt.
“I leave knowing the Company is in excellent hands. Stu and I already have a close working relationship, and I am committed to ensuring I support him in this transition. I am excited to see Lark accelerate under Stu’s leadership with the foundations now well and truly set for what is going to be an incredible next chapter.”