MGP Ingredients is strengthening its leadership team by appointing Matias Bentel as Chief Marketing Officer and Chris Wiseman as Senior Vice President of Operations. Both executives will report directly to Julie Francis, President and CEO, and will play crucial roles in the company’s executive leadership team.
MGP Ingredients stands out as one of the premier spirits distillers, boasting a diverse portfolio that includes popular brands like Penelope, Rebel, Remus, and Yellowstone bourbons, along with El Mayor tequila under the Luxco brand.
Leadership Expertise
Bentel brings a wealth of experience in leadership, marketing, and general management. Before joining MGP, he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Brands Officer at Brown-Forman Corporation. His impressive background includes various marketing roles at Diageo and Allied Domecq. Bentel earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from Argentine Catholic University and completed executive leadership programs at The University of Chicago Booth School of Business. In his new role, he will manage all marketing initiatives, focusing on brand strategy, innovation, consumer engagement, and digital marketing.
Meanwhile, Wiseman contributes nearly 20 years of manufacturing and supply chain expertise. His most recent position was Vice President of Manufacturing at Schwan’s Company, and he previously led operations at Bimbo Bakeries USA. Wiseman holds a bachelor’s degree in bakery science and production management from Kansas State University. In his role at MGP, he will oversee all operational aspects of the organization.
Strategic Growth and Commitment
“We are excited to welcome Matias and Chris to MGP,” said Francis. “Matias brings decades of marketing experience in the alcohol beverage industry and a proven ability to build and grow brands. Chris has a strong track record of driving operational efficiency, building high-performing teams, and improving reliability that delivers consistent results.”
Francis added, “Their appointments reflect our continued focus on building a strong leadership team to support MGP’s strategic growth agenda and underscore our commitment to strengthening operational execution.”
Company Overview
MGP Ingredients operates distilleries in Indiana and Kentucky, and has a tequila distillery joint venture in Arandas, Mexico. Additionally, the company has bottling operations in Missouri, Ohio, and Northern Ireland.
This strategic appointment of seasoned professionals is poised to enhance MGP’s operational capabilities and marketing excellence as the company continues its upward trajectory in the spirits industry.