Greene King brewer world’s youngest to gain master title

Greene King’s new product development brewer, Ross O’Hara, has qualified as a Master Brewer from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling (IBD), making him the youngest person in the world to hold the title.

Master Brewer is the highest level of brewing qualification offered by the IBD and is a measure of candidate’s competence in the technical management of the brewing processes.

The qualification is made up of five modules including ‘Raw Materials and Wort Production’, ‘Fermentation and Beer Processing’, ‘Packaging of Beer’, ‘Management and Regulatory Compliance’ and a ‘Practical Project’.

There are currently 578 Master Brewers globally, but aged 28 O’Hara is the youngest to hold the qualification.

“It’s been a lot of work to reach this level but well worth it,” said O’Hara. “I’ve enjoyed the challenge and love to continue to develop my knowledge. I had no idea I was the youngest doing the course. Greene King has been hugely supportive of me studying for the qualification, encouraging me to run with ideas and draw on the heritage of the brewery to develop interesting new beers.”

O’Hara joined Greene King in 2016 and has been studying for the IBD qualification for four years, alongside his day job at Greene King’s Westgate Brewery.

“This is a fantastic achievement and we are all proud at Greene King of Ross’ dedication and commitment to reaching master brewer level,” added Greene King’s head of operations, David Carr.

“He is passionate about brewing and has exceptional technical ability as well as flair and innovation. His enthusiasm shines through particularly when he is training our apprentice brewers, developing a new recipe or driving industry initiatives such as the new Brewing Apprenticeship.”

Since joining Greene King O’Hara has been responsible for the development of new brands including its Heritage range, Yardbird Pale Ale, Gluten Free Old Speckled Hen, Greene King’s Craft Academy range and all the brewery’s seasonal beers.