The Australian Distillers Association (ADA) has announced that Kylie Lethbridge has resigned from her position as Chief Executive Officer and will finish up at the end of October.
Lethbridge joined the ADA in October 2025 after almost six years as CEO of the Independent Brewers Association. Paul McLeay stepped down as Chief Executive of the ADA in May 2025.
Four Pillars Founder Cameron Mackenzie was appointed as Interim General Manager following McLeay’s departure and helped guide the ADA during the search for a new CEO.
The ADA said Lethbridge had made the decision to step down following careful consideration of her personal and professional priorities.
Over the past year, the ADA said Lethbridge had led the organisation through a significant period of change and had worked with the Board, members, government and industry stakeholders to strengthen the organisation and advance the interests of Australia’s distilling sector.
During her tenure, Lethbridge oversaw the delivery of the 2026 National Distillers Conference and Trade Show, strengthened the ADA’s advocacy and government engagement, progressed a range of important policy and regulatory priorities, supported the organisation’s membership and engagement activities, and represented the sector nationally and internationally.
The Board acknowledged the significant contribution Lethbridge had made during what it described as “the most challenging period for the organisation” and thanked her for her commitment to the ADA and its members.
“Kylie will work closely with the Board over the coming month to facilitate the recruitment process, to ensure a smooth transition and to provide appropriate handover to support the organisation’s continued operations,” the Board said in a statement.
Lethbridge said: “Leaving the ADA is not a decision I have taken lightly. The past year has been one of the most challenging and rewarding periods of my career, and I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and, most importantly, of the work undertaken on behalf of our members and the broader Australian distilling sector.
“I genuinely care about the ADA, its members and the future of this industry, and I am proud of the contribution I have been able to make during my time as CEO.
“After careful consideration, I have decided that now is the right time for me to step away and focus on the next chapter of my career and on creating greater balance personally and professionally.
“I am immensely grateful to the Board and members who have supported me, challenged me, shared their ideas and trusted me to represent their interests. It has been a privilege to advocate for such a passionate and entrepreneurial industry.
“There is still important work to be done, and I will remain fully committed throughout my notice period to ensuring a thorough handover and supporting the ADA through the transition.”
“I leave with enormous respect and affection for the people in this industry and wish the ADA and its members every success for the future.”