Heaven Hill Brands, the largest, independent family owned and led distilled spirits company of brands in the United States, today announced that Matthew “Matt” Hamm has officially stepped into the role of General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer, effective May 1, 2026.

Hamm succeeds Jes Pendergrass, who is departing the company to pursue new opportunities. Over the past several months, Hamm and Pendergrass have worked closely to ensure a seamless transition, positioning the legal and compliance function for continued strength and stability.

Hamm joined Heaven Hill in 2024 as Vice President, Associate General Counsel, and was quickly promoted to Vice President, Deputy General Counsel in 2025. In that time, he has become a trusted partner across the organization, advising on a wide range of legal and business matters while building strong relationships across teams.

“Matt leads in a way that builds trust and clarity,” said Allan Latts, Co-President of Heaven Hill Brands. “His judgment, perspective, and ability to navigate complexity make him well-suited for this role and for the future of the business.”

Before joining Heaven Hill, Hamm spent nearly nine years at Darling Ingredients, where he held several in-house counsel roles of increasing responsibility, supporting large, complex operations across North America. Earlier in his career, he practiced law in the private sector, handling a broad range of litigation and risk-related matters that shaped the practical, business-minded  approach he brings to his work today.

He holds a bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University and a law degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Law.

Since arriving at Heaven Hill, Hamm has built a reputation not just for his expertise, but for how he works with people. His experience spans litigation, labor and employment, regulatory and compliance, and operational support, but what stands out most is his approach. He listens first, works closely with teams, and helps move through complexity without losing momentum. It’s an approach that aligns closely with how the company operates overall, where progress comes from strong relationships, shared accountability, and a clear focus on what needs to get done.

As General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer, Hamm will oversee all legal, compliance, and governance matters and will serve as a member of the Executive Leadership Team.

Recognizing Jes Pendergrass

As Heaven Hill marks this transition, the company recognizes Jes Pendergrass for her leadership and lasting impact.

Jes led the company’s legal and compliance strategy across a complex, global business, partnering closely across teams to manage risk while supporting long-term growth. Her work spanned trade and regulatory compliance, intellectual property, commercial transactions, environmental strategy, and more, alongside leadership of government affairs at the local, state, and federal levels.

She also made a significant mark on the industry, serving on the board of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association and becoming just the third woman to chair the organization in its 140-year history, twice. She was the first woman to receive the KDA’s Esprit de Corps award and continues to represent Heaven Hill on the American Distilled Spirits Alliance board, where she chairs the General Counsel committee.

Jes leaves behind a strong foundation and a reputation for thoughtful leadership, trusted partnership, and meaningful contribution both within Heaven Hill and across the industry.