Kate Latts (left) and Allan Latts (right) stand with Max Shapira, whose role of president they are assuming. (Photo: Heaven Hill)

Heaven Hill, America’s largest independent, family-owned and -led distilled spirits supplier, on Monday announced the succession of its third generation of family leadership with the appointment of Kate Latts and Allan Latts as co-presidents of the company, effective Sept. 1. Current President Max L. Shapira — Kate Latts’ father — will move to the new role of executive chairman.

Kate and Allan Latts have been with Heaven Hill since 2001. In their new roles, they will “continue to pursue Heaven Hill’s strategic growth plans and corporate vision working collaboratively on all key decisions,” according to a news release. Shapira’s day-to-day operational oversight of the business will be transfered to Kate and Allan Latts.

“Over the past twenty years, I have been proud to watch Kate and Allan grow and develop into roles of leadership and increased responsibility,” Shapira said. “They have added immeasurably to the company’s successes and built a foundation for future generations. They bring the passion for this business that has been a hallmark of our company for 85 plus years. I am highly confident the best is yet to come.”

Shapira has been with Heaven Hill since 1970. Kate Latts currently is the company’s chief marketing officer, while Allan serves as chief operating officer.

“Allan and I are proud to assume the leadership of Heaven Hill with full knowledge of our generational responsibility,” Kate Latts said. “My dad, grandfather and his brothers built a company with an enduring legacy of family and independence that is increasingly unique in distilled spirits. With the support of our incredible team, we are as committed as ever to preserving those qualities and ensuring our success for generations to come.”

Heaven Hill will immediately begin its search to identify a new chief marketing officer. The COO position will not be filled.

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