Four Pillars’ Head Distiller Cameron Mackenzie has made the decision to step away from the business he co-founded alongside Stuart Gregor and Matt Jones in 2013.
The award-winning distiller confirmed his exit to staff on Wednesday via email, writing: “It’s time to step away.”
“As you would have noticed over the last 12 months, I have made myself beautifully obsolete!
“I know I look busy as I prance around the distillery holding a manila folder, but the reality is that the folder is empty and I only come in for the free coffee and to bother you all. It’s from the George Costanza playbook.”
Mackenzie is handing over the baton to Sarah Prowse, Head of Production and Distilling, who has been with Four Pillars since 2020, joining the company as production manager and distiller after a 15-year stint in winemaking.
“I can’t think of a more worthy successor than Sarah,” says Mackenzie.
“Prowsey and I have worked side by side since 2020, and she has been instrumental in the growth of Four Pillars without compromising quality, with the consistency of these gins reflected in the countless awards and accolades that the distillery receives each year.”
It’s the latest news from the Victorian-based distillery, which was acquired by Lion last year after the beverage giant purchased 50 per cent of the business back in 2019.
Jones is now the only original co-founder currently working at the business, with Gregor departing last year.
As for what’s next for Mackenzie? A holiday followed by a long break.
“I wish nothing but the best for the Four Pillars brand and team,” he says, “[I] am confident I’m leaving the brand in the very best of hands.”
