Founder of Tyrrells Potato Chips & Chase Distillery, Launched Chase Vodka & Won the Best Vodka Award at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition & Named Regional Winner in the Bank of Scotland’s Corporate Entrepreneur Challenge
William Chase’s Biography:
William Chase is one of Britain’s most celebrated entrepreneurs, best known for transforming a small farming operation into a series of internationally recognised food and drink brands. As the founder of Tyrrells Potato Chips and Chase Distillery, William built businesses that disrupted established markets through innovation, quality and a commitment to provenance. His pioneering approach led to the creation of the UK’s first single estate potato distillery and some of the country’s most acclaimed premium spirits. Having successfully built, scaled and sold major businesses while remaining true to his entrepreneurial vision, William is hired as a keynote speaker to share powerful lessons on innovation, resilience, branding, sustainability and business growth.
Raised on a family farm in Herefordshire, William developed an early understanding of agriculture and enterprise. Rather than following a traditional corporate path, he focused on building opportunities from the land around him. In 2002, he founded Tyrrells Potato Chips, transforming surplus potatoes into a premium product that quickly gained national and international recognition. The company experienced rapid growth and established itself as one of Britain’s leading premium snack brands. William’s entrepreneurial success continued when he sold his majority stake in Tyrrells Potato Chips for a reported £40 million. He then launched Chase Vodka, pioneering the UK’s first single estate potato distillery. The venture earned significant acclaim, including the Best Vodka Award at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Under his leadership, the business expanded into a diverse portfolio of premium spirits before being sold to global drinks company Diageo.
William’s achievements have earned widespread recognition across the food, drink and entrepreneurial sectors. He was a regional winner in the Bank of Scotland’s Corporate Entrepreneur Challenge, highlighting his success as a business leader and innovator. His products have received numerous industry accolades, including Chase GB Gin being named Gin Taste Master at The Global Spirits Masters. His commitment to excellence was further recognised when his Willy’s Apple Cider Vinegar portfolio received a Golden Fork Award at the Great Taste Awards. These honours have established William as one of the UK’s most respected entrepreneurial voices and a regular contributor to discussions on business growth, manufacturing and brand building.
Why Hire William Chase?
Beyond commercial success, William has become a leading advocate for sustainable business practices. He transitioned Chase Distillery towards carbon neutrality through the installation of a sustainable biomass boiler system, demonstrating how profitability and environmental responsibility can work together. As a keynote speaker, William combines practical business insight with engaging storytelling from his remarkable entrepreneurial journey. Audiences gain first-hand lessons on identifying opportunities, building premium brands, overcoming challenges, leading innovation and creating long-term value, making him an outstanding choice for conferences, leadership events and corporate gatherings.
William Chase’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define William Chase’s remarkable career:
- 2021 – Golden Fork Award at the Great Taste Awards for Willy’s Apple Cider Vinegar portfolio
- 2021 – Sold Chase Distillery to Diageo
- 2018 – Transitioned Chase Distillery toward carbon neutrality by installing a sustainable biomass boiler system
- 2015 – Chase GB Gin was named Gin Taste Master at The Global Spirits Masters
- 2010 – Won the “Best Vodka Award” at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition
- 2008 – Launched Chase Vodka, pioneering the UK’s first single-estate potato distillery
- 2008 – Sold his majority stake in Tyrrells Potato Chips for a reported £40 million
- 2007 – Regional winner in the Bank of Scotland’s Corporate Entrepreneur Challenge
- 2002 – Founded Tyrrells Potato Chips
Videos
Bob Bevan’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“William Chase is an inspiring keynote speaker who shares the remarkable story of building and successfully exiting multiple award-winning brands, offering audiences practical insights into entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainable growth. Drawing on his journey from Herefordshire farmer to internationally recognised business leader, he delivers engaging and authentic presentations that motivate organisations to think differently, embrace opportunity and create lasting value.” – David Simms
Speaking Topics
William Chase’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Entrepreneurship
- Business Growth
- Brand Building
- Innovation
- Sustainability and ESG
How Much Does William Chase Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire William Chase?
William Chase’s speaking fees typically reflect their exceptional career and international demand. Engagements vary depending on location, format, and duration; keynote appearances, conferences, and international events may command higher fees due to travel and preparation requirements.