Bailey Loosemore

@bloosemore

The Kentucky Guild of Brewers has hired its first paid executive director with help from a national nonprofit that promotes American craft brewers.

On Monday, the local organization announced it has selected Derek Selznick for the newly created position, which will be funded by the Brewers Association. Selznick will begin the role Sept. 6, according to a press release.

"While we are proud of what we have accomplished with a volunteer staff, a full-time employee gives us the necessary workforce to take our organization to the next level," said Adam Watson, president of the guild's board of directors and a co-owner of Against the Grain Brewery. "With Derek's guidance, we expect the guild to grow and to give all Kentucky breweries the support necessary to truly flourish."

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Prior to his appointment, Selznick worked as a project director with the American Civil Liberties Union of Kentucky, the release stated. For the guild, Selznick will continue efforts to improve craft beer legislation statewide.

"I look forward to advocating for the advancement of all Kentucky breweries," Selznick said in the release. "We are a half billion dollar Kentucky industry that is growing at a furious pace. I am committed to working with Kentucky brewers, our public officials and the tourism sector to support the growth of Kentucky's craft beer industry."

Reach reporter Bailey Loosemore at 502-582-4646 or bloosemore@courier-journal.com.