Husk appoints Quentin Brival as CEO

A New Chapter for Husk: Quentin Brival Appointed CEO as Founder Paul Messenger Becomes Executive Director

We’re excited to share an important milestone in Husk’s story – one that’s been in the making for some time.

Husk Distillers, home of Australia’s Best Rum and the iconic colour-changing Ink Gin, has appointed Quentin Brival as our new Chief Executive Officer. Quentin steps into the role as founder Paul Messenger transitions to Executive Director, marking the next evolution for our independent, family-owned distillery.

This a milestone moment for both Husk Rum and for Paul, a true visionary in Australian spirits. Paul started out with a dream to create a new style of sipping quality Australian rum that reflected the land where it was made. Through passion, grit and an enormous amount of hard work, Paul turned an idea born in a small farm shed into a world class distillery, two award winning spirit brands, a team of 65 people, and a community we’re endlessly proud of.

Paul will continue to play a central role in Husk’s future, focussing on long-term strategy, product innovation and industry advocacy. And yes, he’ll spend a lot more time surfing. Thirteen years in to the business journey, this leadership change reflects where Husk is today: a growing, maturing business with big ambitions both in Australia and abroad.

If you’ve followed Husk over the years, you’ll already know Quentin’s influence runs deep.

Born in Martinique – a place where fresh-cane juice rum is part of the cultural fabric – Quentin brought a lifetime of rum knowledge with him when he joined Husk in 2017. Since then, he has played a crucial role in shaping who we are today.

As Head Distiller and Head of Production, Quentin has led the creation of several award-winning releases and become a respected spokesperson for Husk Rum and Ink Gin. Quentin is a natural leader for Husk’s next phase of growth, and we’re very excited to see where his vision takes us.

Looking Ahead

Quentin is stepping into the CEO role at an exciting moment for Husk. He will oversee business operations, commercial growth, and the continued integration of our award-winning visitor experience at Husk Farm Distillery.

“As a leading Australian distillery, Husk has had an important impact on the local distilling scene,” Quentin says. “Paul’s vision to create sipping-quality Australian cane juice rums while changing people’s perceptions of gin was inspirational. He has built a sound, profitable business with solid foundations for growth, and I’m excited to lead Husk as we continue to strive for excellence and innovation.”