After four years in the role Campbell P. Brown has announced he will step down as Chair of the Brown-Forman Board of Directors in July, with Marshall B. Farrer resuming the role.
Brown became Chair of the Board of Directions at Brown-Forman in 2021, after previously serving as President and Managing Director of Old Forester Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky.
Speaking about his time in the role, Brown said: “It has been an honour to serve as Chair of the Board and to work alongside the many talented professionals who comprise Brown-Forman’s Board of Directors and Executive Leadership Team. Brown-Forman has always believed that thoughtful, well-planned leadership transitions strengthen our company for the long term. After working closely with Board leadership, the time is right to entrust the role of Chair to my cousin and fellow Board member, Marshall Farrer.” .
Brown led the business through a number of challenges including , the pandemic, supply chain disruptions, tariffs on American whisky and the current economic headwinds. Michael Toman, Lead Independent Director, said Brown has provided stability and leadership throughout his four-year reign.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to Campbell for his exceptional leadership as Board Chair. His fresh perspectives, unwavering trust, and strategic guidance have been invaluable during his tenure. We are grateful for his steady hand and approach, which have significantly contributed to Brown-Forman’s success,” saidTodman.
Brown’s successor Farrer, who is currently EVP, Chief Strategic Growth Office, and Director, said he was looking forward to taking over from his cousin.
“Being named Chair of the Board is a profound honour, and I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me by my fellow Board members. I look forward to building on the strong foundation laid by Campbell and continuing our legacy of strategic growth,” he said.
After 27 years, Brown will continue to serve on the board as a Director subject to his re-election. Farrer will become the 11th Brown family member and third fifth-generation family member to serve as Chair of the Board of Directors.