Two Birds Brewing’s Co-Founder and Head Brewer, Jayne Lewis, has announced her departure from the business after 12 years, to pursue new opportunities within the industry.
Lewis founded Two Birds alongside Danielle Allen, brewing its first beers in 2014 before going on to win a number of awards, which included Lewis being recognised by Beer & Brewer’s with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022.
As well as being an award-winning brewer, Lewis has also been an industry leader and has been a driving force behind establishing equality and opportunity for women within brewing, leading her to co-found the industry advocacy group, Drinks Agents For Change in 2020.
Speaking about her decision to leave, Lewis said: “It’s been a wild ride since starting Two Birds 12 years ago alongside Danielle. It has been such an amazing experience, I’ve learnt so much and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved and the beers that we’ve made.
“It’s tinged with sadness, but it feels like it’s time to start fresh with a new challenge. I’m not going far though, as my plan is to move into people-centric training and coaching for the brewing industry.”
Allen added: “Starting a brewery together wasn’t such a crazy idea after all! We learned an incredible amount along the way and enjoyed many beers together.
“Jayne led the way for the Two Birds brand to represent women in beer, along with pushing the boundaries of the craft, I wish her success in her next endeavours.”
Two Birds was bought by Fermentum in 2021, and Fermentum Managing Director, Rod O’Connell said: “Jayne’s contribution to Two Birds, Fermentum and the broader brewing industry over the past 12 years can’t be understated.
“A gold-medal-winning brewer, a much-loved leader and a passionate advocate for women in our industry, Jayne has made incredible connections in this time and cleared pathways for those who have followed her. We wish Jayne all the best in her exciting new venture that will see her continue to have an impact in the industry we all love.”
Two Birds will launch its fifth edition of the ‘Warrior Woman’ International Women’s Day beer at its brewery, The Nest, on Wednesday 8 March providing a fitting opportunity to toast Lewis’ many achievements and contribution to brewing.