Based in the UK, McGurk will be responsible for the global development of The Boatyard Distillery while also strengthening its presence in local markets.

McGurk’s seven-year spell as bar manager at The Savoy’s American Bar ended earlier this year having taken the bar to number one in The World’s 50 Best Bars in 2017.

“I fell in love with the gin after a blind tasting in Belfast and it quickly became a favourite at the Savoy,” said McGurk. “To be joining a growing and ambitious Irish business that’s also so close to home is genuinely a dream come true.

“I look forward to developing The Boatyard Distillery’s position globally and share a martini or two with you all.”

In 2019 McGurk was also named Best Bar Manager at the 2019 Class Bar Awards and prior to the American Bar he worked at premium spirits agency Speciality Brands.

“Since our launch, we’ve enjoyed strong local growth and Declan’s wealth of international expertise and innovative ideas will be a great asset as we embark on the next phase of our expansion,” said founder Joe McGirr.

The Boatyard Distillery was founded by McGirr in 2016 in County Fermanagh Northern Ireland and its core range includes; Boatyard Double Gin, Boatyard Vodka and Boatyard Old Tom Gin.