First Beverage Group of Los Angeles, CA, has announced that JB Shireman has joined the company as Vice President of The Beverage Intelligence Group.

Mr. Shireman, who is widely known in the beer industry from his time with the New Belgium Brewing Co., is considered an expert on the operations and culture of craft beer companies.

"A key strength of our business is our ability to attract and retain the industry's best talent," said Joth Ricci, Chief Operating Officer of First Beverage Group. "Bill Anderson and I have worked with JB in various capacities over the last 10 years, so it seemed a natural fit to ask him to join our team. JB's expertise in craft beer brings yet another dimension of value to our current and potential clients, whether they seek to launch a new craft brand, grow market share, or develop new business in that category. We are very happy to welcome him on board."

Shireman's experience in the beer industry spans 24 years. He is the former Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing for New Belgium Brewing, the makers of Fat Tire Ale. He is also the founder and owner of the Bar Double S Tavern in LaPorte, Colorado, and of Craftcentric Consulting, which provides full-service consultation to beverage distributors and suppliers.

"I have worked with Bill Anderson since my early days at New Belgium and I have been continually impressed over the years by the depth of experience and diversity of the team he has assembled at First Beverage," said Mr. Shireman. "I am honored to have been asked to be a part of this company."

First Beverage said Mr. Shireman will be based in Ft. Collins, Colorado.