28/05/2026
Growing up on a dairy farm in Lobinstown, Co. Meath, Harry Evans always expected to study agriculture. While he had opportunities to pursue rugby scholarships in the USA, he chose to stay closer to home and completed a degree in Sustainable Agriculture at Dundalk Institute of Technology.
As his final exams approached, Harry realised his skills might suit a less traditional path. “I started researching different jobs. I wasn’t specifically looking for a distillery, but when I saw the role advertised, it caught my attention. It was close to home and sounded genuinely interesting, so I applied and never looked back.”
His search led him to Boann Distillery in the Boyne Valley, where he became a Distiller. His farming background and agricultural degree proved invaluable, particularly in grain handling, quality control, and the analytical side of distilling.
Over four years at Boann, Harry developed a wide skillset and earned a Certificate in Distilling from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling. The role was varied — from running production shifts and filling barrels to working with the sales team and supporting sustainability projects through the EXEED energy efficiency programme.
These experiences led Harry to his current role in London with Irish-owned business Nancy Spains as Operations Manager, overseeing venues in London and Manchester and supporting UK expansion.
Reflecting on his time at DkIT, Harry credits the supportive environment and hands-on opportunities for preparing him for a varied career. Alongside his studies, he was active in the rugby team and served as Chairperson of the DkIT Agricultural Society.
His advice to students: “Don't be afraid to take the leap, explore all the options out there, you never know where it'll take you.”
