January 15, 2026

Ghost Tequila appoints John McDonnell Executive Chairman of the Board

The veteran industry leader joins the Boston-based spicy tequila brand amid rapid national and international growth

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By

Laura Shirk

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John McDonnell joins Ghost Tequila as Executive Chairman of the Board

Boston-based Ghost Tequila, one of the fastest-growing tequila brands in the spirits industry, has announced the appointment of John McDonnell as Executive Chairman of the Board.

Until recently, McDonnell served as Managing Director, International, at Tito’s Handmade Vodka where over his 12-year tenure he led the expansion of the brand from a handful of North American markets to nearly 150 countries and islands worldwide and distribution in more than 700 duty free outlets across the globe. Before joining Tito’s, McDonnell was President, International and Chief Operating Officer at Patrón Tequila, and prior to that, he spent 20 years in global leadership positions at Seagram’s.

Ghost Tequila is a 100% Weber Blue Agave tequila infused with a pinch of ghost pepper and is currently distributed across all 50 U.S. states and select international markets in the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. In his new board role, McDonnell will work closely with the company’s team and CEO to accelerate growth initiatives and strengthen relationships with the brand’s partners, distributors, and investors.

“Ghost Tequila is one of the few brands in the spirits industry that genuinely has all the elements for success – an innovative product with standout packaging, national distribution backed by a strong team, and, above all, a bold and distinctively spicy flavor profile,” McDonnell said. “I’m honored and excited to step into this new role and to help shape the next chapter of growth for this truly unique brand.”

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