The Duckhorn Portfolio Inc., North America’s premier luxury wine company, announced the retirement of its President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman, Alex Ryan, after 35 years of service. The company’s Board of Directors has appointed Deirdre Mahlan, a former CEO of Diageo North America, as interim President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairperson.
Mahlan has been a member of the Board since 2021 and has extensive experience in the alcohol and beverage industry. The Board has also initiated a search for a new leader to continue Duckhorn’s success as a producer of high-quality wines.
Ryan said he decided to step away from the company to focus on family and personal matters, and offered to be available for a smooth transition. He thanked the Board and the Duckhorn team for their support and collaboration over the years.
Michelle Gloeckler, an independent director who will chair the CEO search committee, expressed gratitude for Ryan’s dedicated service and said the Board is committed to finding a leader who has the skills and vision to keep Duckhorn on its successful trajectory.
Mahlan said she is excited to be appointed as interim President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairperson, and is committed to building on Duckhorn’s track record of industry leadership and excellence. She said she values the contributions of the Duckhorn team and the company’s unwavering commitment to producing the highest quality wines.
Gloeckler said the Board and Duckhorn’s leadership team are excited to have Mahlan as their interim leader, and value her strong background in the industry and her innovative strategic thinking.
The Duckhorn Portfolio has ten wineries, nine state-of-the-art winemaking facilities, seven tasting rooms and over 1,100 coveted acres of vineyards spanning 32 Estate properties. The company offers a curated and comprehensive portfolio of acclaimed luxury wines with price points ranging from $20 to $200 across more than 15 varieties and 39 appellations.