He joins the company from US whisky and brandy producer XO Alambic and has a long history working within the alcoholic drinks industry. Figgins Jr was a founding signatory of the American Single Malt Whisky Commission and founded the Ellensburg Distillery in 2008.
In his new role at Fynoderee, Figgins will continue with the distillery’s tradition of gin production and take forward an aged spirits programme, which will include the development of the distillery’s expansion into Manx single-malt whisky.
‘Icing on the cake’
Commenting on his appointment, Figgins Jnr said: “This appointment represents a fabulous opportunity, putting the ‘icing on the cake’ of my professional life. Joining a stellar gin producer in its next chapter and leading their entry into Manx malt whisky production is at once ground-breaking and exciting.
“As a proud practitioner of the craft, it has long been an aspiration to go where no-one has gone before, as the distinctive barley grown on the Isle of Man begs to be crafted into malt whisky.”
Figgins Jnr’s arrival will coincide with the opening of the distillery’s new premises in Ramsey, complete with a new 2,000-litre Figgins Reciprocator, a 2,000-litre Next Gen iStill and a range of copper-pot alembics.
‘Serendipitous timing’
Fynoderee chief executive Paul Kerruish added, “It feels like the stars are aligning for Fynoderee. Rusty’s desire to relocate to the Island just as Fynoderee is gearing up and expanding is serendipitous timing at its best.
“Together we share a kindred spirit for innovative and high-quality premium spirits, and we cannot wait to welcome Rusty and his family to the Isle of Man to take the Fynoderee story into its next exciting chapter.”
Meanwhile, appointments by food logistics firm Walker Logistics, Magners Cider owner C&C Group and Kerry Foods are all featured in this round-up of people on the move in the food and drink industry.