Oxford Artisan Distillery appoints Mark Harvey as MD

Oxford Artisan Distillery has hired Mark Harvey as managing director.

Harvey has almost 20 years’ experience working in the drinks industry. Most recently, he was CMO for Chapel Down, having also held roles as CCO and MD at the English wine producer during his seven-year tenure. 

Previously, he spent over a decade at LVMH, culminating in a role as business development director for the US from 2012 until 2015. 

“Mark brings a wealth of experience and success across a number of leading premium drinks brands”, said Oxford Artisan Distillery.

The appointment comes after Oxford Artisan Distillery secured investment from Diageo drinks accelerator Distill Ventures in November 2022. 

It plans to use the funds to upgrade and expand its Oxford site, “tripling production capacity”, and to develop further off-site production capacity to become “one of England’s largest whiskey producers”.

Oxford Artisan Distillery CEO David Smith said he was “thrilled Mark has joined us on this exciting journey”.

“This is great news for our business partners and our consumers as we seek to play our part in the rise of the English whiskey movement,” he added.  

Harvey added: “I’m delighted to have joined Dave Smith and the team at the Oxford Artisan Distillery.”

“Working with heritage grains, not only are we producing uniquely delicious whiskeys, but also leading the revolution in tackling sustainable farming and grain production.

“Like when I started at Chapel Down, there’s great excitement around the journey and growth to come.”