Ray Noble has made the decision to step down from his role as Managing Director for North Asia, Southeast Asia, and Greater China at Sazerac, bringing an end to a significant chapter in his 30+ years in the liquor industry.
After an extensive career that has spanned some of the most dynamic markets in the world, Noble shared with The Shout that it was time to focus on himself and his family.
“I made the decision that I wanted to prioritise myself and my family as I’ve given 30 years to the industry. I realised that there comes a time where you just need to prioritise yourself,” Noble told The Shout.
While stepping away from Sazerac, Noble said he is certain he will return to the industry.
“I will be back because I love this industry.”
Ray Noble tells The Shout
“I won’t look to to take on a new MD role but plan to focus on using my skills to build brands while freeing up more personal time. I’m excited to explore new opportunities, particularly with start-ups, where I can help shape and grow brands from the ground up,” he said.
With over three decades in the industry, Noble shared that he misses the excitement of working with colleagues and closing deals.
“I already really miss the amazing people I’ve worked with and the thrill of doing business,” he told The Shout.
Reflecting on his time at Sazerac, he acknowledged the invaluable experiences and growth he encountered, particularly during his recent role in expanding the company’s footprint in the Asia-Pacific region. During his tenure, Sazerac saw tremendous growth and development, which he fondly recalls as one of the most rewarding periods of his career.
The decision to step away from the leadership position aligns with his personal values, as he begins a new chapter that allows for some much-needed rest and relaxation. Noble is currently enjoying his ‘gardening leave’ and spending time indulging in personal interests, including actual gardening and spending quality time with his wife.
“I’ve been settling into my gardening leave and have been doing some actual gardening and spending lunchtimes at the beach with my wife. I also already have two family holidays booked to Japan and Bali!”
As he transitions from his MD role, Noble emphasised that he’s not distancing himself from the industry entirely. His passion remains strong, and he looks forward to remaining connected.
“Most importantly, I’m still going to remain connected to the industry because I love it!” he said.
Noble’s departure from Sazerac follows a period of tremendous success and personal growth. Under his leadership, the company achieved remarkable milestones, including the rebranding of Southtrade International to Sazerac Australia and New Zealand in early 2025, an initiative aimed at strengthening the company’s presence in the region. His strategic vision and commitment to growing Sazerac’s core brand portfolio were central to its success during his eight-and-a-half-year tenure.
In a heartfelt post on LinkedIn, Noble shared, “After a lot of reflection and conversation with my family, it was clear now was the time to prioritise myself and family/friends over my career!!” He continued, “I have never forgotten being told the happiest cows give the best milk!! Quite a weird saying when you think about it, but something I have always embraced when motivating others to deliver results.”
Despite leaving Sazerac, Noble’s deep commitment to the liquor industry is clear. He reflects fondly on his work with the company and the relationships he’s built along the way.
“The last 8.5 years at Sazerac have been the most challenging yet rewarding of my 30+ year career in this brilliant industry and I will forever remain a loyal fan.”
Ray Noble
Looking ahead, Noble expressed his eagerness to explore new opportunities. While he doesn’t plan to take on another Managing Director role, he remains enthusiastic about working on brand-building initiatives and leveraging his vast experience in the industry.
“I… am still passionate about building brands and business so will be keen to talk to anyone in my network about projects, consulting, or non-exec board roles where I can add value using my experience and energy to help unlock growth while bringing some fun along the way.”
As he embarks on his next adventure, Noble’s contributions to the liquor industry remain undeniable, and it’s clear that his love for the sector will continue to drive him forward.
We wish Ray all the best in his future endeavours, and we look forward to seeing how he’ll continue to inspire and lead in new, exciting ways.