Australia’s liquor retail industry is an incredibly diverse landscape, from pioneering new trends to upholding time-honoured traditions. But beyond the brands and products, it is the individuals within this industry whose passion and dedication create such a dynamic market.
In each instalment of our ‘Five minutes with…’ series, National Liquor News puts the spotlight on a key figure in the industry, sharing a glimpse into their personality and the experiences that underpin their achievements.
Each fortnight, we will dive into the professional accomplishments and unique perspectives of our industry’s dynamic leaders, uncovering their personal stories of success.
This week we sat down with Satya Sharma, CEO of Lark Distilling Co.
NLN: How long have you been with Lark, and can you share a bit about your journey to becoming CEO?
SS: I joined LARK as CEO in May 2023, and prior to this I was working as the Regional Managing Director Southeast Asia and Australasia for William Grant & Sons Ltd. I was with William Grant & Sons Ltd over a 10-year period based in London, Shanghai and Singapore. Before I left Australia I worked for Campbell Arnott’s and in advisory related to Corporate Finance with Pitcher Partners. All of these have contributed to having varying skills and experience which I apply in my role today.
NLN: What are some of the key milestones or lessons in your career that have shaped your understanding of the industry?
SS: Having lived in various places in the world, and travelling to countless more over the last decades, the importance of understanding and immersing yourself in culture, community and having an open mind and a healthy dose of curiosity has been a key lesson for me. I firmly believe our industry is inherently social, about fostering positive connections, discovery and exploration.
Another lesson which is particularly important in our current environment, is that challenges are part and parcel of doing business, it’s vital to view these as opportunities to think differently and often they can be a fantastic catalyst for innovation.
In 2023, I was honoured to have been made Keeper of the Quaich, which recognises those that have shown outstanding commitment and contribution to the Scotch whisky industry. I remain respectful and hugely thankful for everything I was able to learn in my time with William Grants and in Scotch whisky, and equally look forward to trying to help develop a thriving industry on our shores.
NLN: How do you ensure Lark stays ahead of industry trends and changes?
SS: At Lark, we’re deeply committed to our Tasmanian roots and proud to represent Australia as the number one luxury single malt whisky on the global stage. Staying ahead of industry trends means remaining true to our craftsmanship while embracing innovation and opportunity. We are proudly ‘new world’, and have a target consumer that is increasingly curious, seeking credible stories which have at their heart soul, substance, and authenticity.
Right now, we’re incredibly excited about our growth and expansion into key international markets, particularly in Asia. Over the past 12 months, we’ve introduced Lark’s new world whiskies to Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia, where the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Seeing our products delight discerning whisky enthusiasts inspires us to keep pushing boundaries while celebrating what makes Lark uniquely Tasmanian.
NLN: As the CEO Lark, what are your ambitions for the year ahead?
SS: We recently changed the way we go to market in Australia, which is and will continue to be our most important market. We look forward to getting Lark into more places, in front of more people and being front and centre when consumers and the trade think about the pinnacle of Australian whisky making.
Outside of Australia, we know we have a fantastic product, made by amazing people, in arguably the most pristine environment in the world… and we can’t wait to share that with the world. The year ahead brings opportunity to engage with credentialed partners around the world as we deliver against our ambition to be a leader in new world whisky.
NLN: What keeps you inspired?
SS: Growth… both personal and professional. The idea of making a difference, achieving things which were thought to be impossible and building upon the wonderful legacy of both Bill and Lyn Lark as pioneers and trailblazers.
NLN: Outside of work, what hobbies do you have, or how do you enjoy your spare time?
SS: Hobbies generally revolve around sport with a particular passion for cricket, golf, football and tennis (watching, reading and playing). Whatever amount of spare time I do get is usually spent with friends and family and tends to revolve around food, drinks and plenty of laughs.