Claire Tolan from Irish Distillers elected Chair of Drinks Ireland
Drinks Ireland, the Ibec group that represents the Irish drinks sector, has announced that Claire Tolan from Irish Distillers has been elected to a two-year term as Chair of Drinks Ireland, taking over from Pat Rigney, founder and managing director of ‘The Shed Distillery of PJ Rigney’.
Claire Tolan is Managing Director – Ireland at Irish Distillers, a Pernod Ricard company, producers of some of the world’s most well-known and successful Irish whiskeys and distributor of the full Pernod Ricard portfolio of premium brands across the island of Ireland. She is responsible for the sales, marketing, and distribution of their portfolio of premium spirits across the island of Ireland.
Claire brings a wealth of knowledge to her role as Chair of Drinks Ireland with over 25 years’ experience working within the industry. Claire, who is a graduate of DCU, began her career in Irish whiskey in 1998 with the Jameson Graduate Programme as a Brand Ambassador in San Francisco where she progressed, joining the international team in 2007.
Speaking on her appointment, incoming Chair of Drinks Ireland, Claire Tolan said:
“I am delighted and honoured to be stepping into the role as Chair of Drinks Ireland and would firstly like to thank Pat Rigney for the work he has done throughout his term. I am excited to represent such a dynamic and innovative sector focused on the quality & heritage of their brands, driven by the passion and commitment of our colleagues across the industry. However, the last two years have seen extremely challenging for the drinks sector, in particular in relation to introduction of tariffs and the increasing regulatory burden on drinks manufacturers and suppliers.
Ireland’s drinks industry plays a vital role in both our economy and our society, sustaining employment across the country, driving export success, and showcasing Irish excellence internationally.
The industry has consistently shown its resilience. Adapting to changing market conditions, investing in innovation, and responding to evolving consumer expectations. Our ability to evolve while maintaining the highest standards of quality and responsibility has been central to the sector’s continued success and its confidence in the future.
Drinks Ireland Pride of Place vision captures the breadth of the sector’s contribution from supporting communities and regional development, to promoting responsible consumption and advancing sustainability. By building on these shared strengths, embracing evolving consumer trends, and continuing to invest in quality and innovation, we can ensure the long-term success and global reputation of Ireland’s drinks industry.
I very much look forward to working alongside Director Cormac Healy and all of Drinks Ireland members as we continue to showcase the resilience of our industry and its importance to our economy”
Speaking on Claire’s appointment, Director of Drinks Ireland, Cormac Healy said:
“I would like to congratulate Claire on her appointment as Chair of Drinks Ireland. Claire’s depth of experience and knowledge of the sector makes her exceptionally well placed to lead the industry at such a pivotal time. I and the team look forward to working closely with her to champion our industry and support our members.”
Media Contact:
Sabrina D’Angelo, Q4PR, sabrina@q4pr.ie, 086 032 3397
Eimear White, Q4PR, eimear@q4pr.ie , 086 829 7825
