The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) announced the election of John McDonnell, Chief Operating Officer of Patrón Spirits International AG, as chairman of the Board of Directors for a two-year term, at its annual meeting in Florida today.

In his role as Chairman, McDonnell will work closely with DISCUS President/CEO Peter H. Cressy and the Board to direct the liquor trade association in setting the organization’s strategic goals and policies for the industry.

“We are pleased to announce John McDonnell’s election as Board Chairman,” said Cressy. “John brings to this position energy, enthusiasm, political savvy and decades of experience, which will benefit the entire industry.”

McDonnell said, "I'm honored to assume this important position, and look forward to working together with my industry colleagues to continue to promote policies that will increase market share and acceptance of spirits."

He added, "Our industry is facing a number of issues, from tax threats to market access concerns to equal treatment vs. beer and wine, but none of these can be effectively addressed without the full cooperation from all of us who work in this business. One of my primary goals is to help forge closer ties between suppliers, distributors, and retailers."

Before joining Patrón in 2005, John spent 18 years at Joseph E. Seagram & Sons in various domestic and international sales and marketing positions.

McDonnell replaces James L. Bareuther, who retired from Brown-Forman Corporation as executive vice president and chief operating officer. A native of Boston, McDonnell is a strong supporter of numerous philanthropic and charitable organizations.