In this newly created position, O'Malley will be responsible for overseeing the global external activities of the company, including those related to social, community, economic, government and environmental responsibility, with particular emphasis on the company's responsibilities and rights as a beverage alcohol producer. He will also lead the company's global communication efforts, including public relations and internal communication. He will report to the Brown-Forman vice chairman Jim Welch.

"We are thrilled to have Jim join the leadership team at Brown-Forman," Welch stated. "Jim's wide array of experiences and proven track record as a strong leader and consensus builder will greatly benefit our work at Brown-Forman as we continue to enhance our already excellent reputation in our industry and the communities where we live and work."

O'Malley comes to Brown-Forman from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), where he was senior vice president of public affairs. Overseeing the AICPA's Washington, D.C., office, he directed the organization's activities in the areas of congressional and political affairs, regulatory affairs, relations with state CPA societies, international services and media relations and communications.

His previous experiences include serving as chairman of the creative and advertising practice of Burson-Marsteller, one of the world's largest public relations firms, as well as holding senior posts in governmental affairs and communications at several organizations.

O'Malley is a graduate of the University of San Diego, where he earned a bachelor's degree in business administration and a J.D.

From the May 27, 2008, Prepared Foods e-Flash