
The Grand Rectifier is the ceremonial head of the Gin Guild, presiding over its installations and representing the Guild at formal occasions.
Drawn from our four founder firms and distinguished industry figures, the Grand Rectifier embodies the Guild’s values of excellence, integrity and fellowship.
Working alongside the Board and the Director General, they support the Guild’s mission to promote quality, education and cooperation across the gin industry. The office links the Guild’s modern activities to its historic roots within the Worshipful Company of Distillers, celebrating both gin’s heritage and its continuing innovation. The post is normally held for two years.
Grand Rectifiers of the Gin Guild

Charles Maxwell

Desmond Payne MBE

Lesley Gracie

Dr Anne Brock

Martin Riley

Christopher Hayman

The Ceremonial Sash of Office
The silk ceremonial sash worn by the Grand Rectifier of the Gin Guild is a symbol steeped in tradition, authority, and craftsmanship. Woven from the finest silk, the sash embodies both elegance and historical continuity, serving as a visible emblem of the Grand Rectifier’s role within the Guild. Its rich, lustrous fabric reflects the prestige of the office, catching the light in a manner befitting ceremonies, formal gatherings, and Guild events.
Intricate embroidery adorns the sash, often featuring the Guild’s crest, botanicals associated with gin, and motifs representing the art of distillation. These details are not merely decorative – they speak to the knowledge, dedication, and stewardship that the Grand Rectifier embodies. The colours of the sash are carefully chosen to signify rank and tradition, linking the modern officeholder to the Guild’s long heritage.
Beyond its visual appeal, the sash carries ceremonial weight. When worn, it conveys authority, signalling to Guild members and guests alike the presence of the Grand Rectifier. It is donned during pivotal events such as inductions, tastings, and formal presentations, underscoring the solemnity of these occasions. In every fold, stitch, and sheen, the silk sash encapsulates the dignity, expertise, and continuity of the Gin Guild’s highest ceremonial office.
Member testimonials

About The Gin Guild
The Gin Guild was established by the four largest gin producing companies (Bacardi, Diageo, Pernod Ricard and William Grant & Sons) with the Worshipful Company of Distillers to work with Gin distillers from the UK and around the world to provide leadership and focus to the promotion of this exciting spirit category.
The Gin Guild unites gin distillers, brand owners, industry leaders, and other key figures in the sector to champion excellence in gin distillation and its global promotion.
The Guild works to protect, promote, and invigorate the distillation of quality gin both in the UK and worldwide.
It brings together professionals across production, marketing, promotion, distribution, and consumption to foster a shared commitment to excellence and custodianship of the spirit category.
If you are involved in the production, marketing, design, retail, or promotion of gin, join the Gin Guild and make your voice heard in shaping the future of the category.
The Worshipful Company of Distillers
The Worshipful Company of Distillers is one of the historic Livery Companies of the City of London, with roots in the regulation and promotion of spirit production.
Established to uphold the highest standards in distillation, the Company blends centuries of tradition with a commitment to education, philanthropy, and excellence in the spirits industry.
Historically, the Company played a key role in controlling and regulating early gin distillers, forging a unique connection to London—the historical heart of gin.
Today, it continues to support professional development, foster innovation, and celebrate the cultural significance of distilled spirits.


