SIMON THORPE
NEW PABST CEO
Former Ommegang President
To Lead Largest Independent
COOPERSTOWN – Pabst Brewing Company, America’s largest independent brewer, announced today it has named former Brewery Ommegang President Simon Thorpe as chief executive officer, effective tomorrow, Dec. 1.
Eugene Kashper, current Chairman and CEO, will remain full-time chairman of the board and continue to play an active role in the business. There will be a 60-day transition period between Kashper and Thorpe to ensure a smooth handover.
“We are thrilled to have Simon join the Pabst team,” said Eugene. “He is both a true beer industry visionary and a highly respected operator. I have no doubt that Simon’s breadth of experience and proven leadership capabilities will enable us to realize our ambition to become a best-in-class beer supplier and a truly great American brewing company.”
Simon added: “Pabst is an iconic American brewing company that is well positioned to be tremendously successful as the world of beer becomes even more competitive and complex. The company already has a vibrant culture and is filled with exceptionally talented people. The chance to join Eugene and the team at this particular time in the company’s evolution is all that one could wish for. I am truly excited about what we can accomplish together.”
From his post here, Simon was promoted to president/CEO of Duvel Moortgat USA, where he established Duvel Moortgat’s partnerships with Boulevard Brewing Co. in Kansas City, Mo., and Firestone Walker Brewing Co. in Paso Robles, Calif. Simon also led the development of Duvel Moortgat’s import brand portfolio including Duvel, La Chouffe, Liefmans, and Mardesous.
Over a 30-year career Thorpe has also served as head of M&A/Strategy for InBev, president/CEO of Inbev USA and previously held positions with Crayola, Kellogg’s, Tambrands and Unilever.
As a member of the Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce board of directors, Simon helped the early mobilization of local opposition to fracking exploration in the Glimmerglass valley, a move that turned out to be good business sense as well. Larry Bennett, the brewery’s spokesman at the time, reported receiving hundreds of praiseful e-mails from Ommegang fans, and only one or two that were critical.
During his tenure, the Town of Middlefield brewery was also elevated as a concert venue for top rising and established talent – the largest and most successful between SPAC and Binghamton, it was said.
Simon, his wife Kati, whom he met in Cooperstown, and their son Henry will relocate to Los Angeles, where Pabst is headquartered.
