The United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG) this week announced that, effective immediately, Jen O’Blenis (New Orleans) and Geo Thompson (Boston) will assume the National Council of Chapters Chair and Vice-Chair roles. O’Blenis, the former Vice-Chair, fills the Chair role replacing Joseph Fredrickson, who has joined the USBG Board of Directors, while Thompson steps in as Vice-Chair. O’Blenis and Thompson will serve until at least June 30.
The National Council of Chapters is made up of 15 Regional Council Representatives covering five regions and serves as an advisory body to the Board of Directors with respect to issues concerning USBG Chapters, including Chapter agreements and policies, and the recognition or admission of new Chapters. In their new roles, O’Blenis and Thompson will provide guidance, lead the NCC agenda, and represent Chapter matters to the national Board of Directors.
Said USBG Executive Director Aaron Gregory Smith, “As an organization, we’re fortunate to have a deep bench of talent, which enables us to elevate candidates seamlessly into new roles within the USBG. Jen and Geo have demonstrated a tremendous commitment to the USBG, to their communities, and to the advancement of professional bartending. We’re proud to have them serve as Chair and Vice-Chair of the National Council of Chapters.”