What’s your current position?
I’m executive director of the California Craft Brewers Association.
What’s new at the CCBA and what’s next on the horizon?
The CCBA just rolled out a 401k plan and group health care program for our members. We also began a new webinar series called ‘Tap Talks,’ which addresses various issues for our members in a monthly hour-long online conference call similar to the BA’s Power Hour. But the heart of what we do is our legislative advocacy. With the rapid changes in the industry, there are many critical issues both at the state capitol and in the courts, where the CCBA is closely engaged. On the horizon, the CCBA will continue to protect tied-house laws and our current privileges as beer manufacturers. We also put on two member conferences each year as well as the annual California Craft Beer Summit, which we will continue to build.
How long have you served on the BA board of directors?
A grand total of just a few months! I was seated on the board in February of this year.
What’s it like to serve on the board?
It’s really an honor. It is fascinating to work alongside board members I have known for many years and others who I have just met. It’s also a thrill to work alongside an amazing BA staff that is so passionate and dedicated. But the best part for me is the opportunity to give back to the industry that has been so good to me for an entire career.
What challenges and satisfactions have you met during your board service?
It’s a challenge to serve a membership that is so diverse, from small tasting room-only breweries to distributing breweries that span the nation. But the board truly thinks about the industry as a whole, both small and large, as we wade through various issues. It has been very satisfying that the board works so well together.
What do you like to do in your time away from the BA board?
I’m an avid road tripper, traveler, hiker, backpacker, backcountry skier, and snow camper. I’m also a dad to a very cool 15-year-old daughter, who probably knows more about beer than most millennials.