Louisville-based global spirits company Brown-Forman announced that their CEO, Lawson Whiting, has been named to the list of World's Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere. The award recognizes companies who define and measure corporate ethical standards and promote best practices.
Whiting has been in the main leadership role at Brown-Forman since 2018 and on its executive team since 2013. Under his leadership, the company has continued to diversify its brand portfolio through strategic acquisitions such as Gin Mare for approximately $500 million in September and Diplomático Rum in January 2023.
In addition, the Brown-forman Foundation made its largest investment since formation in 2018 after announcing it would invest $50 million over a ten-year commitment to five organizations located in West Louisville.
"We are proud to receive this recognition from Ethisphere," said Whiting. "Our commitment to conducting business ethically is paramount, and we will continue striving towards maintaining high ethical standards."
The World's Most Ethical Companies list is determined based on scores across different categories including ethics and compliance program; culture of ethics; corporate citizenship; responsibility governance; leadership strategy; innovation; reputation management; internal communication & engagement; stakeholder engagement & social influence.