Brown-Forman Executive and Leadership Team

Lawson Whiting, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Brown-Forman, directs the company's overarching strategy and global operations. Whiting's leadership focuses on driving long-term value creation and ensuring the sustained success of Brown-Forman's diverse portfolio of premium spirits and wine brands. This executive oversees all major business units, guiding strategic planning and execution to enhance market position and profitability across key international regions. Whiting's role involves close collaboration with the board of directors to set corporate objectives and ensure alignment with shareholder interests. The President & Chief Executive Officer champions the company's commitment to quality, innovation, and responsible brand-building, essential pillars of Brown-Forman's enduring legacy. Through strategic decision-making, Whiting ensures the company navigates the dynamic global spirits market effectively, maintaining its competitive edge and fostering strong relationships with consumers and partners worldwide. Lawson Whiting's vision propels the company forward, emphasizing operational excellence and brand integrity.

James Peters, the Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer at Brown-Forman, directs all financial operations and strategic financial planning for the global enterprise. Peters' leadership encompasses financial reporting, capital allocation, investor relations, and risk management, ensuring the company's fiscal health and sustainable growth. This executive oversees the treasury, accounting, and financial planning & analysis functions, providing critical insights to guide business decisions. The Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer plays a key role in M&A activities and capital structure optimization, supporting Brown-Forman's strategic expansion and brand acquisitions. Peters' responsibilities also include driving financial discipline across all business units and ensuring compliance with global financial regulations. Through rigorous financial oversight and strategic guidance, James Peters safeguards the company's assets and enhances shareholder value, positioning Brown-Forman for continued success in the competitive spirits and wine industry.

James Peters, the Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer at Brown-Forman, directs all financial operations and strategic financial planning for the global enterprise. Peters' leadership encompasses financial reporting, capital allocation, investor relations, and risk management, ensuring the company's fiscal health and sustainable growth. This executive oversees the treasury, accounting, and financial planning & analysis functions, providing critical insights to guide business decisions. The Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer plays a key role in M&A activities and capital structure optimization, supporting Brown-Forman's strategic expansion and brand acquisitions. Peters' responsibilities also include driving financial discipline across all business units and ensuring compliance with global financial regulations. Through rigorous financial oversight and strategic guidance, James Peters safeguards the company's assets and enhances shareholder value, positioning Brown-Forman for continued success in the competitive spirits and wine industry.

Erin Paternoster, the Chief of Staff (Americas) at Brown-Forman, provides critical strategic support and operational coordination across the company's North and South American business activities. Paternoster's responsibilities include facilitating key initiatives, managing cross-functional projects, and ensuring seamless communication between executive leadership and regional teams. This role is pivotal in driving operational efficiency and executing strategic priorities within the Americas market. The Chief of Staff (Americas) works closely with regional presidents and department heads to identify opportunities for growth and address operational challenges. Paternoster's focus extends to enhancing organizational effectiveness and supporting the implementation of company-wide policies and programs. By streamlining processes and fostering collaboration, Erin Paternoster contributes significantly to the successful execution of Brown-Forman's business objectives throughout the Americas, ensuring alignment with global strategies and maintaining a high standard of operational performance.

Timothy Rutledge, the Vice President, Chief of Staff, USA and Canada at Brown-Forman, spearheads strategic initiatives and operational enhancements within the United States and Canadian markets. Rutledge's role involves coordinating efforts across various departments to ensure the effective implementation of corporate strategies and business objectives. This executive focuses on driving operational excellence, optimizing resource allocation, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement throughout the region. The Vice President, Chief of Staff, USA and Canada works closely with divisional leaders to identify and capitalize on market opportunities, while also addressing any operational impediments. Rutledge's contributions are vital in aligning regional activities with Brown-Forman's global vision, ensuring consistent brand messaging and market penetration. Timothy Rutledge's strategic oversight and operational management are instrumental in strengthening the company's presence and performance across North America.

Lottie Chestnut, the Global Director, Agency Integration & Jack Daniel's Chief of Staff at Brown-Forman, orchestrates the strategic alignment and operational efficiency of external agency partnerships, with a specific focus on the iconic Jack Daniel's brand. Chestnut's responsibilities include optimizing collaboration between Brown-Forman's marketing teams and its global network of agencies, ensuring cohesive brand messaging and impactful campaign execution worldwide. This role is critical in driving integrated marketing strategies that enhance brand equity and consumer engagement for Jack Daniel's. The Global Director, Agency Integration & Jack Daniel's Chief of Staff oversees the development and implementation of best practices in agency management, fostering strong, productive relationships. Lottie Chestnut's leadership ensures that all agency efforts are synchronized with the brand's heritage and future growth objectives, contributing significantly to the global success and consistent positioning of Jack Daniel's across all markets.