Four Pillars founder and award-winning distiller Cameron Mackenzie has announced he is stepping away from the business.

Lion CEO Sam Fischer said: “We are deeply grateful for his vision, passion, and leadership that have shaped Four Pillars into what it is today.”

Among his many accomplishments during his 10 years with Four Pillars, Mackenzie has been named IWSC Master Distiller of the Year (2023) was inducted into the Australian Distillers Hall of Fame this year and is the master behind Four Pillars winning International Gin Producer of the Year at the International Wine & Spirit Competition three times (2019, 2020 & 2023).

Head of Production and Distilling Sarah Prowse will continue to lead the distilling team as she has done since 2022.

Prowse has been with the business since 2020 as Production Manager and Distiller, following 15 years in winemaking producing wine in various regions from the Yarra Valley to Bordeaux. Since joining Four Pillars, she has overseen the growth of the brand to beyond one million bottles per year. 

Lion noted that Prowse had mentored countless people within the industry and, alongside Mackenzie, was installed into the prestigious Gin Guild last year – the world’s oldest community of gin-makers and leaders, established in London in 1638.  

“I would like to personally thank Cameron for his many contributions and wish him well as he enjoys a well earned long break,” Fischer said.

In an email to staff Mackenzie said: “Today I announce my departure from Four Pillars – 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 play book.

I can’t think of a more worthy successor than Sarah to pass the baton (or the still) over to. 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. For now, I am taking a holiday and then a long break, I wish nothing but the best for the Four Pillars brand and team and am confident I’m leaving the brand in the very best of hands.”

Four Pillars was founded in 2013 by Stuart Gregor, Matt Jones and Mackenzie. Gregor left the business in 2023.

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