Brown-Forman Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Brown-Forman has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, finance, global integration, operations, and executive support.

Driven by a legacy of quality, Brown-Forman is dedicated to building brands that connect with consumers across generations, shaping the future of the spirits and wine industry through innovation and responsible practices.

Leadership Roles at Brown-Forman

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Lawson Whiting
  • Vice President, Chief of Staff To Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman - Lee Tatum
  • Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer - James Peters
  • Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer - James Peters
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Joan Clark
  • Global Director, Agency Integration & Jack Daniel's Chief of Staff - Lottie Chestnut
  • Chief of Staff (Americas) - Erin Paternoster
  • Lawson Whiting - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Lawson Whiting, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Brown-Forman, directs the company's overarching strategy and global operations. Whiting guides the enterprise's long-term vision, ensuring alignment across all business units and brand portfolios. This leadership role involves driving profitable growth and enhancing shareholder value through strategic acquisitions and organic expansion. Overseeing the executive team, Whiting ensures robust execution of corporate objectives and maintains Brown-Forman's competitive edge in the global spirits and wine market. The focus remains on building enduring brands and fostering a culture of excellence. Lawson Whiting champions innovation and sustainability initiatives, positioning the company for continued success in a dynamic industry.
    Lawson Whiting

    Lee Tatum - Vice President, Chief of Staff To Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman

    Lee Tatum, the Vice President, Chief of Staff To Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman at Brown-Forman, provides critical strategic support and operational coordination. Tatum facilitates communication and alignment between the CEO, Vice Chairman, and the broader executive team, ensuring key priorities are addressed effectively. This role involves managing special projects, analyzing business performance, and preparing strategic recommendations. Overseeing the flow of information and critical decision-making processes, Lee Tatum enhances the efficiency of executive leadership. The focus is on driving strategic initiatives forward and ensuring seamless execution of the company's vision. Tatum's expertise is instrumental in supporting the leadership's agenda and advancing Brown-Forman's objectives.

    James Peters - Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer

    James Peters, the Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer at Brown-Forman, manages the company's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Peters oversees all financial operations, including accounting, treasury, investor relations, and financial reporting, ensuring compliance and fiscal responsibility. This critical position involves developing financial strategies that support long-term growth and profitability across global markets. Collaborating with the CEO and other executives, James Peters provides financial insights to guide business decisions and capital allocation. The focus is on optimizing financial performance, managing risk, and enhancing shareholder value. Peters drives initiatives to improve operational efficiency and financial resilience, safeguarding the company's assets and ensuring sustainable economic success.
    James Peters

    James Peters - Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer

    James Peters, the Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer at Brown-Forman, manages the company's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Peters oversees all financial operations, including accounting, treasury, investor relations, and financial reporting, ensuring compliance and fiscal responsibility. This critical position involves developing financial strategies that support long-term growth and profitability across global markets. Collaborating with the CEO and other executives, James Peters provides financial insights to guide business decisions and capital allocation. The focus is on optimizing financial performance, managing risk, and enhancing shareholder value. Peters drives initiatives to improve operational efficiency and financial resilience, safeguarding the company's assets and ensuring sustainable economic success.
    James Peters

    Joan Clark - Chief Marketing Officer

    Joan Clark, the Chief Marketing Officer at Brown-Forman, architects the global brand strategy and consumer engagement initiatives. Clark directs the development and execution of innovative marketing campaigns that resonate with diverse consumer bases worldwide. This role involves overseeing all aspects of brand positioning, advertising, and digital presence to drive market share and brand equity. Collaborating closely with product development and sales teams, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures cohesive brand messaging across all touchpoints. Joan Clark's leadership focuses on leveraging market insights to identify new opportunities and strengthen Brown-Forman's portfolio of iconic spirits and wine brands. The objective is to cultivate deep consumer loyalty and expand the company's global reach through impactful storytelling and targeted outreach.

    Lottie Chestnut - Global Director, Agency Integration & Jack Daniel's Chief of Staff

    Lottie Chestnut, the Global Director, Agency Integration & Jack Daniel's Chief of Staff at Brown-Forman, spearheads strategic initiatives and operational alignment for the Jack Daniel's brand. Chestnut manages relationships with external agencies, ensuring seamless integration and maximizing the effectiveness of marketing and communication efforts globally. This role involves driving cross-functional collaboration to support brand objectives and operational efficiency. Overseeing key projects and providing strategic counsel, Lottie Chestnut ensures that the Jack Daniel's brand maintains its market leadership and cultural relevance. The focus is on enhancing brand performance through optimized agency partnerships and streamlined internal processes. Chestnut's leadership contributes directly to the brand's continued success and global appeal.

    Erin Paternoster - Chief of Staff (Americas)

    Erin Paternoster, the Chief of Staff (Americas) at Brown-Forman, drives strategic execution and operational effectiveness across the Americas region. Paternoster supports executive leadership by managing key projects, facilitating cross-functional initiatives, and ensuring alignment with corporate goals. This role involves enhancing communication and collaboration among teams throughout North and South America. Overseeing critical operational workflows, Erin Paternoster ensures efficient resource allocation and timely project completion. The focus is on optimizing business processes and supporting the strategic priorities of the company within the Americas market. Paternoster's contributions are vital to achieving regional growth targets and strengthening Brown-Forman's presence in these key territories.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Brown-Forman Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Brown-Forman?
    Brown-Forman is led by Lawson Whiting (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Lee Tatum (Vice President, Chief of Staff To Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman) and James Peters (Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Brown-Forman’s executive team?
    The executive team of Brown-Forman includes leaders such as Lawson Whiting (President & Chief Executive Officer), Lee Tatum (Vice President, Chief of Staff To Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman), James Peters (Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Brown-Forman have?
    Brown-Forman has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Brown-Forman’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Brown-Forman includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Vice President, Chief of Staff To Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman, Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer, Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Marketing Officer.