We're delighted to welcome Andy Cray as chair of our board! With over twenty years of industry experience and senior positions held in numerous countries around the world, it's safe to say Andy knows a thing or two about beer…
Tell us a bit about yourself
I spent 23 years at Molson Coors in a mix of marketing, sales and strategic roles. I was the Marketing Director for the UK and Ireland before moving into a global role as Managing Director for the Global Licensed business. I then took on the role of Chief Commercial & Strategy Officer for the Europe and then EMEA & APAC division for five years, before leaving in February ’22. This cross-functional experience built my leadership capability to develop and drive organisational change. Often through defining the strategy and building the teams to execute the plans across multiple geographies and categories.
After two decades of experience in the drinks industry, I’m thrilled to be joining the Brewgooder team at such an exciting time. I’m looking forward to adding my own experience and energy to the team to help shape the next seven years of growth for this authentic, purpose-led brand and the positive impact it has on people’s lives.
What has attracted you to the Brewgooder brand?
I have long admired brands that have been able to deliver on a positive purpose and make a real impact. One of my favourites is Tony’s Chocoloney and their mission to change the chocolate supply-chain for the better. They have engaged consumers and built a premium brand and product that customers can support and get behind. That has, and continues to, radically change the category for the better.
Brewgooder is an impact brand in beer, built in the mould of impact brands in other categories like Tony's, Ben and Jerry's or Patagonia. Their range of great tasting, accessible beers have proven the potential to engage the next generation of beer drinkers and define a new premium in the beer industry. This is great news for the category going forward. The penetration and relevancy of beer to younger adult drinkers has been in decline for a long time and shows no sign of turning around. These same consumers are looking for authentic brands, conceived and built to deliver a positive impact. After seven years of hard work, passion and learning, Brewgooder is such a brand and team to make it happen.
What have been the first impressions of the team?
I love being part of great teams that get things done and have some fun along the way. My first meeting with Alan and James, over a couple of perfect pints of Brewgooder, was both inspiring and exciting. The passion for the brand and the impact it delivers is infectious, something I have felt every time I’ve been able to spend time with the wider team. It’s not been an easy journey for a small business, however the ambition and tenacity is evident and great to be around.
Any surprises in what you’ve learnt so far?
A few actually: I have been excited by the level of customer engagement and support for the brand. The collaborations with other brewers and organisations have created some amazing beers and demonstrated a widespread, genuine passion to get involved and make a difference.
And your favourite Brewgooder beer?
I’m a lager drinker and was lucky enough to try the new Yo! Sushi Shibuya Rice Lager in venue a couple of days ago and loved it. Also, rather excited about the new premium lager in development right now…
