Ardbeg

Since 2023, I’ve led Ardbeg’s social media strategy across Instagram and Facebook—transforming these channels into high-engagement platforms that deepen brand loyalty, support product discovery, and create meaningful pathways to purchase for one of the most passionate communities in spirits.

An Always-On Strategy To Keep Customers Talking

Idea

With a fiercely loyal audience known as the Committee, Ardbeg’s value lies in connection—not just visibility. Our strategy focused on driving engagement year over year, using social listening and data-backed creative to strengthen brand affinity and generate demand for signature programs like the Masters of Smoke Tour and limited-edition launches.

Approach

I oversaw always-on content strategy, community management, and creative development across paid and organic campaigns. Leveraging A/B testing and platform insights, we prioritized quality over quantity—launching content that felt culturally attuned, Committee-first, and conversion-minded. I also created assets and messaging to amplify product drops and turn off-feed conversations into measurable momentum.

Impact

Despite fewer posts, Instagram engagement surged +300% YTD in 2025, with multiple posts exceeding past campaign benchmarks. Campaigns like Eureka! and Earth Day delivered the highest performance since 2022, contributing to sell-out moments and reinforcing loyalty. While follower growth remained steady with 10% growth each year, deeper interaction and commercial alignment turned social into a key retention and repurchase channel in Ardbeg’s most active market.

Justine L., Ardbeg Brand Manager

“Ryan transformed Ardbeg's social presence over three years at Moët Hennessy. He didn't just increase engagement, he created genuine pathways to conversion by truly understanding one of our most loyal consumer bases. His rare combination of strategic vision and hands-on execution across content creation, community management, and data analysis made him an incredible asset to the team.”

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