Eastside Distilling names Lawrence Firestone as CEO

Eastside Distilling has appointed Lawrence Firestone as its new CEO, effective immediately.

The news follows the announcement of Steve Shum’s resignation as the company’s interim CEO last month.

Firestone joined Eastside Distilling’s board of directors in September earlier this year and will continue to serve on the board.

Most recently, Firestone served as the executive vice-president and chief financial officer of Akonni Biosystems, a privately held developer of molecular diagnostic platforms and as chairman of FirePower Technology, a manufacturer of ATX power supplies for the IT and instrumentation markets.

Prior to these roles, Firestone held the positions as CEO of Qualstar Corporation, CFO of Advanced Energy Industries and CFO of Applied Films Corporation.

“I am excited to lead Eastside Distilling as we execute on our current strategic plans to advance our national platform, including the continued expansion of our Redneck Riviera Whiskey and Burnside line-ups, and integration of our newly acquired Azuñia Tequila brand,” said Firestone.

Firestone added: “Over the past couple of years, the team at Eastside has created one of the industry’s fastest growing, fully integrated spirits platforms. I am confident we can build upon the success the company has had to date, while developing strategies that can enhance value for shareholders.”

Paul Shoen, chairman of the US spirits company, said: “The board is pleased to appoint Larry Firestone as its new chief executive officer. Larry brings a ‘hands-on’ leadership style, with a focus on teamwork, continuous improvement, cost reductions, and process optimisation.

“His success in directing fast growing public companies will serve Eastside well as we continue to execute on our strategic business plan and drive shareholder value.”