CANNON BEACH, Ore. (December 8, 2025) – Public Coast Brewing Co. has announced the appointment of Chad Kennedy as its new Operations Manager. With more than 20 years of experience in craft brewing, food and beverage operations, and regulated consumer packaged goods (CPG), Kennedy will oversee day-to-day operations, lead team development, and help guide the brewery's continued growth.
"Chad brings a remarkable blend of technical brewing knowledge and leadership experience to Public Coast Brewing Co.," said Ryan Snyder, owner of Public Coast Brewing Co. "His passion for people, process, and great beer makes him a perfect fit for our team, as well as our mission of welcoming guests with bold, creative brews and warm hospitality."
Kennedy began his brewing career in Eugene, Oregon, after learning to homebrew while working at a food ingredients company. He earned a brewing school scholarship in 2007, going on to serve as Brewmaster at Laurelwood Brewing in Portland before helping launch and lead Worthy Brewing in Bend. Over the years, he has held director-level roles across the craft beer and hemp/CBD industries, honing his experience in operations, compliance, and team leadership.
Originally from Pittsburgh, Kennedy holds a Master of Science in journalism from the University of Oregon and a Bachelor of Arts in advertising from Penn State University. He has also completed World Brewing Academy coursework at the Siebel Institute of Technology.
Known for his people-first approach and collaborative leadership style, Kennedy is passionate about fostering high-performing teams and delivering standout guest experiences. He draws inspiration from the Pacific Northwest's vibrant culinary scene and loves fly fishing on Oregon's scenic waterways.
About Public Coast Brewing:
Located just 70 miles west of Portland in Cannon Beach, Oregon, Public Coast Brewing is named after the only true public coastlines in America: the Oregon Coast. The brewery features a 10bbl Brewhouse with two 30-barrel fermenters, two 20-barrel fermenters, and four 10-barrel fermenters. Public Coast Brewing also offers fresh and delicious fare from local farms and ranches, including their own - Public Coast Farm. Boasting a large pet-friendly patio, large community-style outdoor fire pit, and an open brewhouse easily viewed from the bar, Public Coast Brewing offers a relaxed and welcoming spot for the whole family.
About Public Coast Farm:
Oregon's historic Route 26, known to Portlanders as the Sunset Highway, has welcomed generations of families traveling to and from the coast on its forested byway. Now Public Coast Farm sits on that very route, straddling West Dairy Creek at the base of the Coastal Range, on a 40-acre site lush with blueberry bushes, beehives, fruit orchards, and hops. The farm is fertile ground for the farm's sister properties - the Stephanie Inn and Public Coast Brewing Co. - each of which incorporates Public Coast Farm's fresh ingredients into delicious dishes and seasonal beers.
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