According to the official statement, Rogers’ appointment is part of enhancements being made to the Awards and the judging process that are aimed at better reflecting current brewing practices and trends of the beer industry.
A member of the Australian International Beer Awards Industry Advisory Group, introduced in 2011, Rogers has extensive experience as a judge at both the AIBA, the World Beer Cup, Great American Beer Festival, Brew NZ and Beer Asia.
According to Mark O’Sullivan, CEO of the RASV, the organization is thrilled to have Rogers on board. “The RASV is thrilled to have Brad join the AIBA as Chief Judge in a move that accompanies exciting changes to the Awards moving forward,” he says. “Brad is a passionate industry figure and innovator, whose experience as a brewer and judge will strengthen the Awards and its appeal to brewers worldwide.”
Rogers will be replacing Peter Manders who has served in the role since 2005. O’Sullivan was keen to stress that the society acknowledges and thanks Manders for his support and contribution to the Awards for the past eight years.
Entries to the 2013 AIBA open from 7 January to 15 February.
Judging begins 8 April 2013.