The South Carolina Beer Wholesalers Association (SCBWA), the state’s premier advocate for independent beer distributors, announced several staffing additions, including the appointment of Lance Boozer as the organization’s new executive director. Boozer brings more than a decade of legal and government experience to SCBWA, and will lead the Association’s state advocacy and membership efforts.

“Beer distributors are an integral part of the South Carolina economy,” said Boozer, noting that South Carolina beer distributors support more than 2,100 direct jobs and contribute more than $950 million in total economic impact to the state economy. “As part of a time-tested regulatory system, South Carolina beer distributors are proud to provide equal access to market from brands of small craft breweries to the mega international brewers and help ensure consumer choice and safety. I’m thrilled to serve this great industry and to be a resource for legislators, media, and other stakeholders who want to know more about the men and women who make up South Carolina’s dynamic beer distribution industry.”

Prior to joining SCBWA, Boozer ran the boutique Boozer Law Firm, LLC, with a focus on criminal law, civil litigation, licensing and regulation, consumer law, and post-conviction relief. He also helped businesses, corporations, nonprofits, and professionals navigate complex regulatory and legal issues.

Before his private practice, Boozer gained significant public and private sector experience, including tenures as an associate at one of South Carolina’s oldest law firms, as an assistant attorney general for the South Carolina’s Office of Attorney General and in the Office of White House Liaison for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in Washington, D.C. He received his B.A. from the University of South Carolina and his law degree from Stetson University College of Law in St. Petersburg, Fla.

SCBWA also staffed up its legal and operations departments, announcing continuing roles for Lea Barnwell Kerrison as general counsel and Candice Spencer as director of operations.

Kerrison of Kerrison Law, LLC has years of experience in administrative and regulatory law, alcohol licensing and distribution, commercial insurance, and coastal permitting. Kerrison received his B.A. from The Citadel and Juris Doctor from the University of South Carolina School of Law.

Spencer previously worked with the SCBWA in various roles and now takes over as director of operations. She will work to ensure the organization’s membership is receiving the best, most efficient service. She oversees daily operations in addition to planning association events. She received her B.A. from Clemson University and an MBA and law degree from the University of South Carolina.