The Australian Distillers Association (ADA) advises that Kylie Lethbridge has resigned from her position as Chief Executive Officer and will be finishing up at the end of October.

Kylie has made this decision following careful consideration of her personal and professional priorities. Over the past year, Kylie has led the ADA through a significant period of change and has 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, Kylie has overseen 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 acknowledges the significant contribution Kylie has made during what has been the most challenging period for the organisation and thanks 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 ADA remains focused on continuing its advocacy, member services and support for Australian distillers.

David Ridden
President


A message from Kylie:

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.


Kylie Lethbridge
CEO

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The Australian Distillers Association (ADA) exists to represent and strengthen Australia’s distilling industry.