The Beer Institute (BI) has named Caitlin Harder its new director of public affairs.
Harder joins the BI, which represents brewers of all sizes at the federal level, from the Clyde Group, a Washington, D.C.-based communications agency with specialized practices in public affairs, democracy and finance.
“Team Beer is delighted to welcome Caitlin as our new director of public affairs,” BI president and CEO Brian Crawford said in a press release. “Caitlin’s depth of experience, from her work on Capitol Hill to her successes at Clyde, will bring fresh insights and a new perspective to our efforts.
“Her passion for connecting people through beer, combined with her expertise in engaging diverse audiences, will be invaluable to our industry as we continue to tell the story of America’s favorite alcohol beverage and the nearly 2.4 million Americans who brew, ship and sell beer,” he continued.
Harder served as director of public affairs at Clyde Group for two years, according to her LinkedIn profile. Before that, she spent nearly two years at Leadership Connect, a firm that helps clients forge relationships with government officials, according to its website.
“I am thrilled to join the Beer Institute and promote an industry that brings people together and contributes so much to our economy,” Harder said in the release. “I look forward to applying my experience in strategic communications and public affairs to advance the mission of our members and partners while amplifying the stories that shape our industry across the nation.”
Harder succeeds Alex Davidson, who departed the BI in July after nearly five years leading the trade organization’s communications.
BI members have assembled in New York City this week for the organization’s annual meeting. Look for future Brewbound coverage of the proceedings.