Founder | Shan.Ferments
Shanleigh Thomson, originally from Winnipeg, Canada, has been a part of the alcoholic beverage industry for over 11 years. With academic credentials including a Masters in Food Science from Purdue University, a Master Brewers Certificate from UC Davis, and a certificate in Developmental Economics from the London School of Economics, she has leveraged her multifaceted education to contribute across various roles in the field.
Her career lead her to become a Liquid Commercialization Specialist for Diageo in Chicago, developing products like Smirnoff and Captain Morgan. Shanleigh later explored opportunities as a brewer and production manager in Seattle before moving back to Canada. She sold and educated brewers about malt, yeast and other ingredients before becoming a representative for Pacific Northwest and New Zealand Hop Growers at Yakima Chief Hops. Her experiences also include working for renowned companies like Agriculture Canada and a role as a supply chain analyst for Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries.
Beyond her industry roles, Shanleigh founded Shan.Ferments, a platform that combines her interest in marketing, science, and storytelling, aiming to make the world of fermented beverages more accessible to both brewers and those new to the industry.
Outside her professional engagements, Shanleigh enjoys traveling and advocates for mental health and workplace wellness. Her commitment to education and community engagement within the world of brewing reflects a balanced blend of knowledge, creativity, and a genuine desire to contribute positively to the field. Her approach to brewing emphasizes collaboration and shared learning, continually working to inspire and educate others in the industry.