CCBA appoints a new executive director

The California Craft Brewers Association (CCBA), the oldest and largest trade association representing craft breweries in the country, has announced the selection of a new Executive Director Kelsey McQuaid-Craig.

With a master’s in Public Administration, and as a Certified Association Executive, McQuaid-Craig will continue the association’s commitment to supporting membership and advocating at the state level on behalf of California craft brewers, while continuing to strengthen the association’s operations. With over a decade of association management experience, McQuaid-Craig most recently held the role of Director of Policy and Programs with the California Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians.

McQuaid-Craig adds a lens of organizational effectiveness to the CCBA’s long standing history. “As a dedicated association professional who enjoys a good craft beer, I look forward to learning from and engaging with the CCBA Board and members to strengthen the California craft brewing industry,” said McQuaid-Craig.

McQuaid-Craig has already begun her transition into the ED role, working closely with exiting ED Lori Ajax. A collaborative and overlapping transition ensures the CCBA will remain at the forefront of advocating on behalf of its membership, as well as ensuring strategic partnerships with allied organizations will continue.

CCBA Board Chair Sierra Grossman expressed the organization’s excitement with McQuaid-Craig, stating, “The Board knows that Kelsey will focus on ensuring the CCBA’s organization is as strong as it can be as we continue to be challenged in our ever-changing economic climate. With a strong association, we can continue to play a pivotal role in being the voice of craft brewers at the State Capitol.”