He Created Baileys, Malibu & Johnny Walker Blue — But Got Fired for Being Too Visionary I With James Espey OBE

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He created Baileys, Malibu, and Johnny Walker Blue Label — and still got fired.

In this unforgettable conversation, I sit down with James Espey, the legendary brand builder who helped turn simple ideas into global liquor empires. From launching the #1 liqueur in the world to boldly betting $100 million on a vision no one else believed in — James shares the real behind-the-scenes of how these iconic brands came to life.

We talk about:

• Why Chivas Regal 18 was launched as a direct answer to Johnny Walker Blue
• The corporate egos, boardroom politics, and the speech that changed everything
• His philosophy: “The customer is the only real CEO”
• And what happened when his bold ideas finally got him fired — only to be honored 30 years later for the same decision

This is more than a branding story. It’s a raw, inspiring masterclass in vision, leadership, and legacy from one of the greatest marketers of our time.

If this inspired you, send it to a friend who’s still carrying too much.

📌 ABOUT JAMES ESPEY OBE

Entrepreneur | Brand Builder | Mentor | Author | Philanthropist

James Espey OBE is the powerhouse behind some of the most iconic spirits in the world. With a career spanning over five decades, he’s helped create and build global giants like Malibu, Baileys, Johnnie Walker Blue Label, Le Piat D’Or, Chivas Regal 18, and The Classic Malts — always choosing bold moves over safe bets.

Born in Zambia and raised in South Africa, James began in the grocery trade and quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the most respected voices in the global drinks industry. Together with his legendary creative partner Tom Jago, he turned ideas into billion-dollar brands.

In 2008, he founded The Last Drop Distillers, a luxury spirits brand dedicated to rare, aged whiskies — later acquired by Sazerac. James was awarded the OBE in 2013 for his services to the whisky industry and is a founding member of The Keepers of the Quaich.

He’s also the author of two powerful books:

📘 Make Your Mark in the Workplace – Grab it here
📗 365 Quotes to Accelerate Your Career & Find Balance – Read it here

Today, as Chairman of The Wiltshire Whisky Distillery, James continues to mentor the next generation — helping leaders around the world build brands, careers, and legacies with integrity.

CONNECT WITH JAMES ESPEY

WEBSITE I https://jamesespey.com/

LinkedIn I https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-espey-obe-42309ba/

CONNECT WITH HINA

WEBSITE I  https://thehinasiddiqui.com
LINKEDIN I https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinasiddiqui/

INSTAGRAM I @hinawithwings
Email I [email protected]

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