The Brewers Guild of New Zealand has appointed a new executive director.

Following an extensive search, Melanie Kees is taking the helm from Sabrina Kunz, who has been in the role for just over three years.

Kees will be taking over officially in late October 2021.She is best known for her work in marketing and communications at Otago Polytechnic, where she was “instrumental” in launching brewing qualifications and partnering with the Guild to develop industry skills as part of the Otago Brew School.

Kees also has experience at the helm of membership organisations, having previously been at MotorSport New Zealand.

Kees and Kunz will be working together over the transition period though November.

The Guild has also reminded members that online entries for its Awards’21, which include packaging, sustainability, beer tourism and beer media awards close this Friday, 24th September.