Husk Distillers – producer of Husk Rum and Ink Gin – has announced founder Paul Messenger is stepping down from his Executive Director role.

Husk’s Head Distiller and Head of Production Quentin Brival has been appointed CEO with immediate effect.

The distillery said the leadership change formalisee a long-planned evolution as it prepares for its next phase of growth in Australia and key international markets.

Born in Martinique and raised in a culture steeped in fresh-cane juice rum, Brival has played a central role in building Husk’s reputation as one of Australia’s leading rum and gin distilleries.

Since joining the business in 2017, he has overseen significant production capacity expansion as well as spearheading several award-winning releases. In recent years, Brival has increasingly taken on a larger role, contributing to Husk’s strategic direction and representing the brands.

Messenger – who pioneered the farm-to-bottle, cane-juice rum in Australia and invented Ink Gin, the world’s first butterfly pea gin – said the appointment reflects Husk’s maturing business and long-term vision.

“Quentin is the natural choice to lead Husk into its next chapter,” he said. “His technical expertise, creative approach, and deep understanding of the spirits industry, make him uniquely placed to guide Husk’s continued evolution, while strengthening our market position and reputation as one of Australia’s most successful and innovative distilleries.”

Brival will oversee business operations and commercial growth. He will also further integrate Husk’s acclaimed visitor and hospitality experiences into the company’s growth strategy.

Brival said he was honoured to step into the role at a pivotal moment for Husk Distillers.

“As a leading Australian distillery, Husk has had an important impact on the Australian distilling scene,” he said.

“Paul’s vision to create sipping quality Australian cane juice rums, while changing people’s perceptions of gin was inspirational. He has built a sound, profitable business with solid foundations for growth and I’m very excited to lead Husk through our next phase as we continue to strive for excellence and innovation to expand our reach to an ever-wider market.”