Treasury Wine’s MD for Europe Dan Townsend has died

The drinks business is very sad to report that Dan Townsend, managing director for Europe at Treasury Wine Estates, has died.

Dan Townsend: 1964 to 2017

Dan, who was 53 years old, passed away in the US last week, and, although the exact cause of his death is yet to be formally determined, db can confirm that it was due to natural causes.

Over the last 30 years Dan has been a much-loved member of the drinks trade working across different categories and channels, from the likes of Scottish Courage, to executive roles at Matthew Clark, Constellation Europe and Louis Latour.

Dan worked at Treasury Wine Estates for the last six years, beginning as general manager for the UK and Western Europe before rising to the position of managing director for Europe in April last year.

In a statement released by Treasury Wine Estates this morning, Dan was described as a “deeply respected” member of the business and “an inspirational leader”.

Over the last two years Dan was also the proud Chairman of drinks industry charity The Benevolent, helping raise substantial funds for members of the trade in desperate need of support.

Treasury Wine Estates CEO, Michael Clarke said: “Our deepest condolences go out to Dan’s family and loved ones. Dan is a big part of our business and he has been a role model for many. This is an incredibly sad time for our entire business, in particular for our UK and European teams.”

db’s thoughts go to his friends, colleagues and, in particular, his wife and children.