BALTIMORE, MD - Heavy Seas Beer, brewing in Baltimore since 1995, announced today that it has named Dan Kopman as Chief Executive Officer effective May 1, 2017. Dan will report to Founder, Hugh Sisson, who will remain full-time Managing Partner and continue to play a very active role in the business. Also, current General Manager, Patrick Helsel, is relocating to California at the end of May, and will help facilitate Dan’s transition.
Dan was previously Co-Founder and CEO of Schlafly Beer. Dan and Tom Schlafly opened The Schlafly Tap Room in 1991 and Schlafly Bottleworks in 2004. Schlafly Beer successfully changed the beer culture in St Louis and, in doing so, helped to revive two blighted neighborhoods. Sales of Schlafly Beer grew to 50,000 hl by 2012. In 2012, Dan and Tom sold the majority stake in Schlafly Beer to a local investor group. Revenues topped $20m in 2013, with $7m in sales through the two brewery pubs and $13m in sales to wholesalers.
“We are very excited to have Dan join Heavy Seas”, said Hugh, “With Pat leaving we are fortunate to get someone with Dan’s level of experience in the industry. He adds depth to our team and will ensure great continuity for the future development of the Heavy Seas’ brand.”
In 2011, Dan was honored by the Brewers Association with the F.X. Matt Defense of the Industry Award for his leadership role in the craft brewing industry and his work to promote federal excise tax reform for America’s craft brewers. Dan was also a member of the Brewers Association Board of Directors in 2015-2016.
Dan added, “Heavy Seas is an iconic Baltimore favorite and a great brand that is well positioned for future success throughout the Eastern US and beyond. The Brewery has established a commitment to quality, and a passionate culture built around both a love for great craft beer and their community.”
Raised in St. Louis, Dan has a degree in Economics from Kenyon College and an MSc in Policy Studies from Edinburgh University. In the 1980’s, He worked at Scottish Brewers in Edinburgh and Young’s Brewery in London. Dan is married to the Scottish born writer, Sheena Cook. He will be relocating to Baltimore.
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