At the heart of the beer industry, women and non-binary leaders are not just breaking barriers – they are reshaping the future of brewing. While International Women’s Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey toward gender equality, we believe it’s essential to spotlight the contributions and achievements of these trailblazers all year round.
Their leadership, vision, and determination are creating opportunities and forging new paths, challenging the status quo, and making room for the next generation of women and non-binary people to thrive in the traditionally male-dominated industry. Celebrating these remarkable individuals every day highlights the progress we’ve made and the continued work needed to build a more inclusive and diverse beer industry for all.
Today we shine a spotlight on Briony Liebich from Flavour Logic, who has carved out a unique and fulfilling career in the beer industry, bringing her expertise in sensory analysis from the world of food and wine to the fast-paced, creative world of brewing.
Her journey into the beer industry was both unexpected and transformative, as she discovered her passion for the technical and sensory challenges that come with beer production.
“I was working in the world of food and wine where I managed a sensory panel dedicated to short and long-term projects. I worked mostly isolated in a research environment where funding for projects was very competitive,” Liebich recalls. “An opportunity came along to use my sensory analysis skills in a fast-paced production environment at a local brewery. I quickly fell in love with the incredible range of flavours beer offers and the passionate and creative people I met. The technical challenges of producing and analysing beer kept me on my toes and I learnt something new every day.”
Now, as a sensory analyst, Liebich has become a central figure in the beer industry, using her skills to assess and understand the complex flavours that make beer so unique. For her, the best part of her job is the connection she fosters between people and the beer they drink.
“It’s all about the people and the beer,” she says with an undeniable passion. “I love bringing people together, whether it’s for a tasting session, working with a sensory panel, or sharing tasting notes in a beer course.”
One of Liebich’s proudest contributions to the industry has been her involvement in supporting and encouraging more women to become beer judges, particularly through the Pathway to Judging Program run by the Pink Boots Society. As a sensory analyst and beer judge, she has played a role in breaking down barriers for women in the traditionally male-dominated world of beer judging at national beer awards.
“As a sensory analyst and beer judge, I have loved helping more women become judges at national beer awards through the Pathway to Judging Program run by Pink Boots Society,” she shares.
In addition to her work as a sensory analyst and consultant for her brand Flavour Logic, Liebich is deeply passionate about beer quality and beer appreciation. As a beer educator, she takes immense satisfaction in helping others discover the nuances and complexities of beer tasting.
“There’s something special about watching people sip a beer and get excited when they pick up on a flavour they’ve never noticed before,” she says. “The more we educate ourselves about beer, it’s rich history and culture, the more we discover its incredible depth and variety. When people are curious and engaged with an opportunity to learn, they are more open to tasting the world of beer and sharing their passion across beer production, service and consumption.”
For women considering a career in the beer industry, Liebich has some valuable advice based on her own experience.
“The industry is a wonderful, collaborative community. People within the industry want to see others succeed and are willing to lend a hand. Of course, it’s a tough market and there is competition, but the industry as a whole is very supportive. There are continuous improvements to creating safer, more inclusive environments,” she says.
Her key piece of advice? “I would advise people to know and understand their values and live by them when it comes to making decisions and taking career steps. Connect with role models for guidance and mentorship. It’s important to speak up when you feel it’s needed or at least ask for support from groups like the Pink Boots Society.”
Liebich’s journey is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and embracing opportunities, no matter how unexpected. Through her work, she has not only contributed to the growth of the beer industry but also helped shape a more inclusive and educational environment for all.
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