December 4, 2023
Toronto, ON – After 25 years successfully leading Spirits Canada, Jan Westcott, President and CEO announced his retirement from the Association and will depart the Spirits Canada Board as of December 31, 2023.
For almost 40 years, Mr. Westcott has played a critical role as a relentless and passionate policy and public affairs leader within the beverage alcohol industry. Mr. Westcott joined Spirits Canada in 1998, following his roles as President and CEO of the Canadian Wine Institute and founding CEO of Brewers of Ontario.
“On behalf the Board of Directors, we are tremendously grateful for Jan’s contributions to Spirits Canada over the years. His work has led him to become one of the most respected public affairs leaders in the beverage alcohol space, and we thank him for his institutional knowledge that places Spirits Canada on a path for growth and innovation for the years to come. We thank Jan for everything that he has helped us achieve, and wish him the very best in his retirement ” said Nicolas Krantz, President and CEO, Corby Wine and Spirits and Chair of the Board, Spirits Canada.
The board underwent a diligent and extensive search and are delighted to announce that Cal Bricker has been appointed as incoming President and CEO of Spirits Canada effective January 1, 2024.
“At Spirits Canada, I’ve had the privilege of working with fantastic people across the spirits industry all while representing great companies alongside incredible world-renowned brands. I must also thank my talented Spirits Canada colleagues who, over the decades, contributed hugely to what the Association achieved. I am eternally grateful to have had this opportunity; it has been the experience of a lifetime”, noted Mr. Westcott.
Over the years, Jan has forged strong relationships with industry and government partners, emphasized the importance of the spirits sector as a wealth creator contributing to strong and continuous economic growth across Canada for those involved in the “grain to glass” process.
The team at Spirits Canada thank Jan for his unmatched leadership and dedication during his tenure, and wishes him a happy and well-deserved retirement.
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For further information:
Via Dulay, Senior Manager, Communications
via.dulay@acd.ca
About Spirits Canada:
Founded in 1947, Spirits Canada is the leading voice and national trade association that represents the interests of the distilled spirits industry in Canada.
Spirits Canada is proud to welcome, connect, educate and inform Canadians about the sector; from promoting relationships that strengthen the “grain to glass” process of premium distilled products, to driving industry success with, and for, our spirits counterparts across the world.
Spirits Canada and its member companies are committed growing the sector with continuous advocacy towards the moderate and responsible consumption of alcohol, sustainability, economic impact, policy, and industry data.