Persephone Brewing Company founder and CEO Brian Smith has handed over the reins to Jenn Vervier, a former executive at one of the largest craft brewing companies in the United States.
“We are so excited to welcome Jenn to Persephone. Her 25 years’ experience at one of North America’s most progressive breweries will help catalyze our next phase of growth and impact,” said Smith in a release.
The transition occurred June 10. Smith will remain with the company as chair of Persephone’s board of directors, assisting with business development and its long-term strategy.
Dion Whyte, general manager of Persephone, is also stepping down, with plans to pursue opportunities in affordable housing on Vancouver Island, according to the release. “We are grateful and pleased to see Dion embarking on a new adventure,” Smith said.
“With Dion moving on to other endeavours and my focus on leading Rhiza Capital, we wanted to find a values-aligned executive with deep brewing industry knowledge while promoting gender-balanced leadership.”
Vervier spent more than two decades at Colorado-based New Belgium Brewing Company, the fourth-largest craft brewery in the U.S., before resigning last May. Roles included chief financial officer, chief operating officer, and most recently, corporate social responsibility and strategic projects director.
“I’m excited and honoured by the opportunity to lead this inspiring company. Persephone has all the pieces we need to be successful – high-quality delicious beer, talented passionate staff, an amazing location, and integrity, which shines throughout. I look forward to promoting the story of our farm-based B-Corp brewery and cidery which has already had an indelible impact on the Sunshine Coast community,” said Vervier in the release.
