Media Release

Articles published under the media release byline are news produced by the relevant business and remain unedited by Brews News.

IBD AP Section announces newly appointed Executive Manager

The Board of the Institute of Brewing and Distilling Asia Pacific is pleased to announce the appointment of Kerstin Wahlqvist to the role of Executive Manager of the Asia Pacific Section.

IBD AP Section Executive Manager Kerstin

Kerstin brings more than 20 years’ experience in business and industry with specific experience in business improvement, education and people development. Kerstin is a qualified lawyer with an MBA and early in her career found herself in the challenging area of corporate affairs (Communications) for Myer before taking the plunge and starting her own business which, she ran for two years.

Kerstin has a unique perspective on the challenges faced by both large companies and the challenges of owning your own business as an entrepreneur.

In 2013 Kerstin joined CEB International (now Gartner) where she was the Director of Forums where she had many enjoyable years researching, designing and leading various membership forums and peer groups focussed in education, personal and business improvement, and enjoyed most the opportunities to help develop people.

Kerstin was successful in the Executive Manager role after an exhaustive external search and is well suited to take our Section’s strategy forward. The appointment is a departure from traditional internal industry appointments as the Board looked for a highly qualified executive who can bring innovative thought for the benefit of our membership. Kerstin brings a refreshing new perspective and leadership to our Section.

The Board is looking forward to working with Kerstin on our renewed approach to meet the education needs of brewers, distillers, maltsters and allied industry groups in our region. Kerstin will commence in January 2019 and immediately begin to introduce herself to people in the distilling and brewing industries.

The IBD Board will also be working with Kerstin in the coming months to revisit the region’s strategic plan and priorities for the ensuing years, while supporting her as she takes over secretarial duties associated with the role.

At this point I would also like to recognise the wonderful work of Rob Greenway (current Secretary) who has brought amazing passion and energy to our Section in a career in brewing that spans an incredible 52 years! We will be sure to recognise Rob in due course for his extensive skill and contribution to our Section.

Rob is helping with Kerstin’s transition over the next few months before retiring from the role of Secretary. There will be more news regarding Rob’s farewell from this role available soon.