Beer Institute hires chief economist, federal affairs director

The Beer Institute has been busy. Not only is it representing brewers, beer importers and industry suppliers of all types before Congress, regulatory agencies and the media, but it’s been hiring a brew hall full of employees lately. In late May, the Institute announced that Dr. Joy Dubost, RD, CSSD, would join the trade association as its senior director of science and external affairs. In March, it announced a new VP in Susan Haney.

Now, the Beer Institute has announced that it filled the key positions of chief economist and director of federal affairs. Drum roll, please … Michael Uhrich will be the new chief economist for the trade association, and the Institute also added the new position of director, federal affairs that will be filled by Joe Heaton, who has spent more than a decade on Capitol Hill.

Here’s the rundown on these two gents. Uhrich is a veteran of the beer industry, having spent part of his career at MillerCoors, most recently managing the marketplace intelligence function in their Insights division. He is a Certified Beer Server through the Cicerone Certification Program and an avid homebrewer. Uhrich holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in economics from Marquette University.

“I am thrilled to be joining the Beer Institute at such an exciting and dynamic time,” Uhrich said. “Economics is fundamentally a study of choices, and at all levels the American beer landscape now offers more choices than ever before.”

Heaton most recently served Rep. Jon Runyan (NJ-03) as Deputy Chief of Staff and Legislative Director, advising the Congressman on all policy issues. The Ohio native also worked in Rep. Mike Turner’s (OH-10) office as Legislative Director and Counsel. He has handled several issue areas for the Congressmen, including tax, trade, financial services, judiciary and appropriations.

“Without a doubt, the beer industry has an enormous impact on the American economy. I am excited to have the opportunity to be an advocate for the beer industry, and help engage the Federal Government about the issues that are important to brewers across the country,” said Heaton.

“America’s brewers and beer importers are at the top of an industry that creates jobs and contributes to local economies across the country,” said Beer Institute President and CEO Jim McGreevy. “Michael will be instrumental in conducting the consumer, industry and macroeconomic research and analysis that helps us communicate that message clearly to policymakers. We are thrilled to add Joe’s energy and expertise to our staff in this new federal affairs position. His understanding of Congress and experience in crafting meaningful policy will enable us to continue advocating effectively for our members and the whole beer category.”