I’ve had an eventful but enjoyable two years as your President, and I certainly had mixed feelings when I handed over the reins of office to Dr. David Ryder, at last weeks AGM.

It was a great privilege to be asked to take on the role of President, with all the challenges and responsibilities that came with it, and I have learnt a great deal during my term of office. I would particularly mention the high regard in which the Institute is held around the world, the enthusiasm, expertise, and good-will it can draw on from its members, and the opportunities it has to further its mission globally in the years to come.

I have tried my best over the last two years to meet as broad a cross-section of members as possible, listen to the many diverse view-points expressed to me, draw out some common threads, and distil from these a series of goals and priorities I personally felt were the most relevant to today’s needs. 

Introducing new leadership at Clarges Street has I believe been instrumental in enabling the Institute to re-establish itself, both with member companies, other industry organisations and, most importantly, it’s own sections and membership.

It’s been particularly satisfying to see the way in which fresh approaches to communication have been introduced and well-received – whether in the form of the weekly electronic news letter, or in the moves to position the Brewer and Distiller International as the number one members magazine for our industries.

The Institute’s portfolio of qualifications has been extended in response to company/industry feedback, and I am especially pleased with the positive response given to the launch of the new Diploma in Packaging qualification.  The Institute is also building new links with third party training providers to ensure world-wide availability of top-quality training in support of its qualifications. 

The launch and positive support given to the Younger Members Network has also been a welcome initiative, and is testimony to the positive-thinking, attitudes, and behaviours of our younger members.  I would urge all sections to continue to provide the support and encouragement necessary to their younger members, to enable them to fulfil their potential and also benefit the Institute.

Finally I must mention the tremendous collaboration achieved between the Institute and the BFBI in organising the upcoming International Brewing Conference in Manchester .  This is a first for the Institute, and we have deliberately tried to plan a programme which is not only relevant to all who work in the Supply Chain of today’s brewing industry, but also different in its content to that which is the norm at such events.

The conference programme is set, the trade-show fully booked, the sponsorship secured, and we are already ell into three-figures with delegate registrations. So all of us who are involved in the organisation of this event are looking forward to an exciting and entertaining three days in Manchester .

I hope to see as many of you there as possible, but for those of you unable to attend Manchester , I would like to take this opportunity now to say thank you for your support and encouragement over the last two years.  I firmly believe your Institute is in good hands, has a clear view of its role in life, and the resource, relationships, and commitment to ensure its continuing success in the years to come.  

Kind Regards 

Harry White