Julia Herz Apr 2026

Herz served as the Craft Beer Program Director for the BA for over a decade, where she led initiatives such as the Independent Craft Brewer Seal and fostered public awareness of craft beer.

A graduate of the University of South Florida with a degree in Broadcast Journalism, Herz worked early in her career at CNN in Washington D.C. before turning her focus toward the brewing industry. A certified Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) judge and an Advanced Cicerone®, she solidified her expertise in beer style, sensory analysis, and pairing. Key Contributions to the Brewing Industry julia herz

In 2021, Herz was named Executive Director of the American Homebrewers Association. In this role, she has spearheaded the growth of the community, supporting homebrewers in the U.S. and Canada. Herz served as the Craft Beer Program Director

Julia Herz: A Champion of Craft Beer and Homebrewing Julia Herz is a recognized leader, advocate, and educator in the American brewing industry, best known for her pivotal roles at the Brewers Association (BA) and her current position as Executive Director of the American Homebrewers Association (AHA). With a career spanning over two decades, Herz has been a vocal proponent of independent craft brewers and homebrewers, acting as a public face for craft beer appreciation, education, and industry growth. Early Career and Passion for Brewing A certified Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) judge