CEO transition announcement

The Institute today announces that, after three and a half years as CEO, Tom Shelston has agreed with the Board that he will step down from the role as part of a planned leadership transition.

Tom has provided steady leadership through a significant period of organisational change, working with the Board to strengthen the Institute’s future strategy and supporting its transition to Chartership.

With that work now well advanced, Tom and the Board have agreed that this is an appropriate point to hand over to new leadership for the next stage of the Institute’s development. Tom will remain available to the Board to support a smooth transition.

Tom commented, “It has been a privilege to lead CIBD and to work with its dedicated staff, volunteers and partners around the world. The organisation’s incredible international network is what makes CIBD so unique, and I am grateful for the support, commitment and expertise of everyone who contributes to its work.”

The Board and I thank Tom for his dedication to CIBD, his team spirit and always cordial engagement with the Board. In particular, he played, with his team, an important role in overseeing the complex legal and organisational work that enabled the smooth transition from the Institute of Brewing & Distilling to the Chartered Institute of Brewers and Distillers on 1 January 2025. He also contributed to advancing the Institute’s strategic priorities, strengthening its professional-development offering and membership proposition with its global community. Tom leaves with our very best wishes for continued success and fulfilment in the next chapter of his professional journey.