Deschutes Brewery announced that Michael LaLonde has been named president and CEO of the Oregon brewery. Most recently serving as COO and president of the company, as CEO, LaLonde will fulfill many of the same duties he currently manages for the brewery.
Gary Fish, founder and chairman of Deschutes Brewery, said, “In reality, Michael has been serving in a CEO capacity for some time now, as he handles many aspects of strategic planning and daily operations of the company. The title President and CEO more accurately describes Michael’s role and his guidance will continue to help us fulfill our goals.” Fish formerly held the role of CEO.
Michael LaLonde has held various senior management roles at Deschutes Brewery since 2005. Recently, he spearheaded the company’s expansion plans for building an east coast facility in Roanoke, VA and he is often credited with coining the unofficial slogan of the brewery – “damn tasty beer.” He has helped the company both define and stay true to its values, and has placed an emphasis on a culture of transparency. He also has been instrumental in the company’s strategic planning and employee engagement processes.
With a background in C-level operations prior to joining the brewery, Michael also volunteers with many different area non-profits including serving as past Chairman of the Bend Chamber of Commerce and sitting on the Sudara and Thunderstruck Lacrosse boards. Michael graduated from Georgia State University with a BBA in Finance and earned his MBA in International Management from Thunderbird Global School of Management.
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