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Legendary Distilling Team

Craig Beam

Master Distiller
There is no family more identified with the distilling industry than the Beam family. Jackson Purchase Master Distiller Craig Beam is a seventh-generation distiller. Craig influenced—or made—many iconic brands of whiskey over his four decades in this business.

Terry Ballard

Head Distiller

But it doesn’t start and stop with Craig. Right alongside him is Jackson Purchase Head Distiller Terry Ballard. Determined to master the craft of distilling, Terry played a pivotal role in the revival of Willet Distillery, producing several award-winning brands in the past two decades.

The Team
Van

Van Carlisle

Chairman of the Board

Van Carlisle

During his 35-year tenure as CEO of Fire King International, Van Carlisle helped transform the company from the smallest competitor in its category to the industry leader. Now Managing Partner of Carlisle Family LLC, he brings deep expertise in growth strategy, acquisitions, and brand development, guiding organizations toward sustained and intentional success.

Bio

Lloyd Jones

CEO and President

Lloyd Jones

A native of Fulton County, Kentucky, Lloyd Jones brings more than forty years of business development and international manufacturing experience to Jackson Purchase. An Eagle Scout and Peace Corps volunteer, he holds a BBA and an MA from the University of Kentucky and is a member of the UK Rugby Hall of Fame. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and community.

Bio

David Salmon

Chief Operating Officer

David Salmon

A 35-year veteran of Kentucky bourbon, David Salmon has held executive roles at Maker’s Mark, Heaven Hill, Wm. Grant & Sons, and Corby Distillers. His expertise spans product development, distilling, branding, and global operations. David has helped shape some of the industry’s most respected labels and now supports Jackson Purchase’s continued growth and craftsmanship.

Bio

Jim Gladden

Director

Jim Gladden

A seasoned entrepreneur, Jim Gladden built a successful career in automotive manufacturing before founding Genesis Land Company. A Business graduate of Indiana University, he is also deeply involved in the equine world, with over 15 years of experience in racing, breeding, and pinhooking. Jim brings a grounded, hands-on perspective to Jackson Purchase’s leadership team.

Bio

Nichole Beam

Key Account Manager

Nichole Beam

Nichole is a two-time veteran of the distilling industry. She began her career in marketing and brand development at Heaven Hill before building a logistics company for the bourbon industry from a small operation into a fleet of more than 100 vehicles. Her experience blends brand insight, operational leadership, and industry connectivity. And yes—because everyone asks—she is related to Master Distiller Craig Beam.

Bio

Andrew Newton

Director of Contract Sales

Andrew Newton

Andrew Newton began his distilling career as Senior Manager of Contract Sales at Lofted Spirits, where he developed a strong foundation in client relations and production coordination. He now leads contract sales at Jackson Purchase Distillery, bringing strategic focus and hands-on industry experience to the role.

Bio

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