News

The peak body for Australian owned independent breweries, announces the departure of Chief Executive Officer, Kylie Lethbridge.

“On behalf of the Board and the entire industry I would like to thank Kylie for an incredible 5 years with the IBA. Her commitment and dedication, leadership and positive influence will ensure a legacy is felt by our members for years to come.” Says Evin Craney, Board Chair of the Independent Brewers Association (IBA).

Kylie joined the IBA in a baptism of fire, with her first day in 2020 just one day prior to COVID lockdowns commencing across the country.  She has led our members through the COVID recovery time, delivered State strategies and heralded not one, but two excise remission increases – delivering real money into the hands of our members.

Those headline accomplishments conceal Kylie’s true contribution to the indie community.  She has answered the phone, responded to an email or driven out to meet members on issues big or small.  Her approach has always been members first.  And it shows in the relationships that she has built across the country – where she is relied on not just as an expert, or the person who will get things done, but also as a confidant and a friend.

“Kylie has truly gone above and beyond for the indie brewing community.”  Says Tom Champion, Deputy Chair of the Independent Brewers Association.  

Kylie will be moving on to the role of General Manager for the Australian Distillers Association (ADA). With many common goals, shared supply chain and even some shared members – we look forward to working with Kylie at the ADA to champion small producers across Australia.

The IBA has, and always will be about a collective of members looking to make things just a little bit easier, and a little bit better for each other.  The Board of the IBA remain committed to vision that ensures Australians have the opportunity to choose an ‘indie’ beer.   

“The Board are taking some time to reflect on Kylie’s lasting impact, and will make an announcement in the coming weeks about the management of the IBA following Kylie’s departure in late October,” says Evin Craney.