Rutland Square Spirits, the Edinburgh-based premium spirits company renowned for its fusion of Scottish craftsmanship and Indian heritage, announces the appointment of two industry veterans to its leadership team: Gaurav Joshi as Director of Global Travel Retail, and Paul Crolla as Business Development and Senior National Account Manager.
These strategic hires coincide with Rutland Square Spirits’ ambitious global expansion, marked by the establishment of offices in India and Dubai, plans to launch in Singapore, and significant investment from Indian actor and entrepreneur Dr. Vivek Anand Oberoi, who recently assumed the role of Chairman.
Gaurav Joshi appointed as Director of Global Travel Retail
Gaurav Joshi, a seasoned professional in the travel retail and drinks industry, joins Rutland Square Spirits as Director of Global Travel Retail. Formerly the Asia Pacific Director at Bacardi Global Travel Retail, Gaurav has a total of 17 years at Bacardi in various leadership roles.
Nishant Sharma, Founder and CEO of Rutland Square Spirits, said, “With a wealth of experience across global travel retail, Gaurav brings both strategic depth and operational agility. His track record includes building high-performing teams, driving commercial excellence, and unlocking new market opportunities across duty-free and luxury retail. We’re incredibly excited to be guided by his vision as we continue to scale and build a brand that truly travels well.”
Gaurav is also the founder of Platinum Liquids, a Delhi-based distribution company specialising in luxury spirits and tobacco. His deep understanding of the AMEA region and luxury consumer behaviour is expected to play a pivotal role as Rutland Square Spirits accelerates its presence across international airports and global travel hubs.
Paul Crolla joins as Business Development and Senior National Account Manager
With over two decades of experience in the UK drinks industry, Paul Crolla brings a wealth of knowledge in sales and distribution from his tenure at Kingfisher Drinks, C&C Group, and Diageo. Most recently, he led sales initiatives at Sysco GB.
Paul has a proven track record of boosting sales margins by over 200%, scaling premium brands across on- and off-trade channels, and securing national accounts while building high-performance teams.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Paul and Gaurav to the Rutland Square family,” said Nishant Sharma, Founder and CEO of Rutland Square Spirits. “Their combined expertise and leadership will be instrumental as we scale our brand globally. With our recent expansion into new markets and strategic partnerships, we’re poised to bring our unique fusion of Scottish and Indian spirits to a broader audience.”
Global expansion and strategic partnerships
Rutland Square Spirits is rapidly expanding its global footprint, with established offices in Edinburgh, India, and Dubai, and plans to launch in Singapore. The company recently secured a significant investment from Indian actor and entrepreneur Dr. Vivek Anand Oberoi, who acquired a 21% stake and assumed the role of Chairman. This partnership aims to support the brand’s global growth and includes plans for a net-zero luxury hotel in Edinburgh.
About Rutland Square Spirits
Founded in Edinburgh in 2021, Rutland Square Spirits is a multi-award winning premium spirits company that blends Scottish distilling traditions with Indian heritage. Known for its innovative products like Chai Spiced Scottish Gin – the world’s first Oolong-infused gin – the company is committed to crafting exceptional spirits that celebrate cultural richness and artisanal craftsmanship.
