Australian Distillers Appoints Kylie Lethbridge as New General Manager

• Kylie Lethbridge has been appointed as the new general manager of Australian Distillers. She will formally take up the post on 27 October
• Her last role was CEO at the Independent Brewers Association, providing her with significant experience in the beverage and brewing industry

Australian Distillers has made public the appointment of Kylie Lethbridge as its new general manager, with her term starting on 27 October. Lethbridge was a former CEO of the Independent Brewers Association.

The president of Australian Distillers, Holly Klintworth, said the appointment marked a "pivotal and exciting chapter" for the organisation. She lauded Lethbridge's energy, experience, and profound knowledge of the challenges and opportunities that confront Australian distillers," and her clear vision and collegiate leadership style as an ideal match for the association's goals.

With over 25 years of experience in strategic development, advocacy, and leadership, Kylie has a proven track record of raising industry voice and building healthy, strong, forward-looking organisations. She has served at all levels of government and senior positions in national industry organisations, where she has managed economic growth, policy reform, trade, and investment results for Australian producers.

Seizing the challenge, Kylie told us that she was taken aback by the welcoming reception she received and was keen to assist artisan producers, small enterprises, and enthusiasts alike within the industry. She highlighted the future opportunities, citing members' commitment and the board's leadership as essential to realizing mutual success.

Amanda Watson, new CEO of the Brewers Association of Australia, congratulated Kylie on her appointment. While noting that their immediate working relationship was not long established, Watson praised Kylie's previous work and encouraged the acknowledgement of women's leadership within the sector. She also referred to the history of close cooperation between the Independent Brewers Association and the Brewers Association and is confident that Kylie would provide the same dedication and practical solutions to Australian Distillers.

Amanda further said she welcomed the opportunity to meet the successor to Kylie at the Independent Brewers Association and hope to have a constructive working relationship with them upon appointment.