After five years at the helm of San Francisco-based importer, distiller, and marketer Hotaling & Co., industry veteran Dan Leese is stepping down as CEO. The announcement was made on January 14, 2025, with Leese set to officially leave the position at the end of June. The company’s board has already initiated a search to find a suitable replacement, with Leese staying on as an advisor until March 2026.
During his tenure, Leese has been credited with reshaping Hotaling & Co. into one of the leading distillers and importers of artisanal spirits and cocktail essentials in the United States. Under his leadership, the company has seen significant growth, particularly in consolidating its route-to-market strategies, enhancing its digital presence, and expanding its world-class portfolio.
In a statement, Hotaling & Co. chair Emma Fox praised Leese for successfully guiding the company through the challenges of the pandemic and positioning it for future success. She highlighted Leese’s role in forging strategic partnerships, such as the nationwide distribution alignment with Southern Glazer’s, which has opened up new growth avenues for the company’s portfolio of owned brands, including Old Potrero, Hirsch whiskies, Junipero gin, Nikka Japanese whisky, Writers’ Tears Irish whiskey, Old Pulteney single malt Scotch, Kavalan whisky, Hine Cognac, Fiero Tequila, and Luxardo cordials.
Founded in 1993 as Anchor Distilling by Fritz Maytag, Hotaling & Co. was acquired by Tony Foglio and Berry Bros & Rudd in 2010. Following the sale of its Anchor Brewing division to Sapporo Holdings for $85 million in 2018, the company rebranded as Hotaling.
Reflecting on his time at Hotaling, Leese expressed pride in the company’s accomplishments during his tenure. He emphasized the importance of the passionate and knowledgeable team at Hotaling, as well as the strong relationships with suppliers that have contributed to the company’s success. Looking ahead, Leese is open to new challenges and opportunities, eager to explore what the future holds once his tenure at Hotaling comes to a close.
As Hotaling begins the search for its next CEO, the company remains committed to building on its legacy of excellence in the spirits industry. With a focus on innovation, quality, and strategic growth, Hotaling & Co. is poised to continue its trajectory as a leading player in the market.
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In conclusion, Dan Leese’s departure from Hotaling & Co. marks the end of a successful chapter for the company under his leadership. As the search for a new CEO begins, Hotaling remains focused on driving growth, innovation, and excellence in the spirits industry, building on the strong foundation laid by Leese and the entire team at Hotaling.