Tutor Guided Learning

Billy Mitchell - Diploma in Distilling Module 2 Tutor

Billy is a technical expert with a vast knowledge and experience of the distilled spirits production business gained during a career spanning over 40 years with Diageo.

His roles covered a range of topics including laboratory analysis, quality, risk, planning, new product development, research and development and general management. Prior to retiral, he was heavily involved in new malt distillery build and the expansion of Cameronbridge distillery.

Billy started his career in the laboratory at Cameronbridge distillery in 1970, where he gained his first insight into malting, mashing, distilling and maturation in grain whisky production. During his career he moved into a series of senior and executive roles, returning to Cameronbridge distillery as General Manager for the distillery and Leven spirit supply. His last role with Diageo was as Technology Director for distillation and maturation.

Since leaving Diageo in 2011, Billy set up his own consultancy, Will and Spirit Limited, and continues to provide technical input to his clients around the world. Billy has been involved in writing distillery reviews for the Brewer and Distiller from around 2012, a role he still fulfills today.

He has supported the IBD in the preparation of the new learning materials writing many of the lessons covering the Certificate in Distilling and Modules 1 and 2 of the Diploma in Distilling.

Billy has been an IBD member since early days in his Diageo career. He became a Fellow of the Institute in 2012. As one of the IBD's most seasoned writers, Billy’s expertise as a tutor will be invaluable for Diploma in Distilling candidates.

Billy lives in Alloa, Scotland. He has a vast amount of hobbies including, golf, breadmaking and gardening; he also enjoys a large Black Label with ice and water. He is quite the model train enthusiast and has a full 00 gauge layout in his garage.