Heavy Seas Beer today announced that industry veteran Dan Kopman, who co-founded the Saint Louis Brewery, makers of Schlafly Beer, will takeover as the Baltimore brewery’s new CEO on May 1.
The announcement comes just three months after Kopman, who launched Schlafly in 1991 with partner Tom Schlafly, said he would depart the Saint Louis Brewery at the end of 2016.
“Heavy Seas is an iconic Baltimore favorite and a great brand that is well positioned for future success throughout the Eastern US and beyond,” Kopman said via a release. “The Brewery has established a commitment to quality, and a passionate culture built around both a love for great craft beer and their community.”
Kopman, who joins the Heavy Seas organization as general manager Patrick Helsel steps down and relocates to California, will report to brewery founder Hugh Sisson.
Sisson, meanwhile, will continue to serve as a full-time managing partner and “play a very active role in the business,” according to a company statement.
“With Pat leaving we are fortunate to get someone with Dan’s level of experience in the industry,” Sisson said in the release. “He adds depth to our team and will ensure great continuity for the future development of the Heavy Seas’ brand.”
Under Kopman’s leadership, production of Schlafly beer grew to 60,000 barrels and sales eclipsed $20 million in 2015. In 2012, Kopman and partner Tom Schlafly sold a majority stake in the brewery to Sage Capital, a St. Louis-based private equity firm.