Stephen Rust

Stephen Rust is an accomplished executive with extensive experience in the spirits industry, currently serving as President of U.S. Spirits at Diageo since 2006. Rust has held numerous leadership positions at Diageo, including President of Reserve and New Business Commercialization, where strategy creation for luxury brand growth was a focus. Additional roles include managing the Chateau and Estate Wine division and leading a national team to enhance brand distribution and positioning. As a Senior Vice President, Rust drove market effectiveness for acquisitions and created innovative strategies for luxury brand development. Rust contributes to the industry as a Governing Board Member at Pronghorn, supporting Black founders and entrepreneurs, and serves as an Advisory Board member for Distill Ventures, which aids early-stage founders. Prior to Diageo, Rust held executive roles at Schieffelin & Somerset and Paddington Corporation.