US producer Alaskan Brewing Company has promoted chief operating officer Max Rule to CEO, effective 1 June.

He replaces Linda Thomas, who will work closely with Rule during the transition period, the company said.

Thomas will serve on the board of directors and remain “active on the executive leadership team”.

Alaskan Brewing Company was founded in 1986 in Juneau, Alaska. As well as a range of beers, its portfolio includes canned cocktails and seltzers such as Solstice Vodka Lemonade and Musk Ox Vodka Mule.

Thomas said: “Max’s values are aligned with the brewery’s values. He has already proven how tirelessly he will work for the benefit of our crew and our customers. Not only will this leadership transition be smooth; it will drive the brewery’s ongoing potential for the future.”

“Alaskan Brewing Company is employee-owned and all of us strive to ensure everyone connected with Alaskan Brewing Company is proud of what we do, how we do it, and the results we’ve achieved from a remote area of Alaska.”

Rule added: “I’ve had the privilege to work closely with Linda, who has had a tremendous impact on the Alaskan Brewing Company over the last 30 years.

“ With the contribution of every single member of our crew, we’re proud to deliver to our customers the best quality craft beverages. None of that will change during this transition.”

Rule has served as Alaskan Brewing Company's chief operations officer for two years. Prior to that, he was CEO of Commercial Design Systems - now part of retail strategists SKY Retail Solutions. He has served on various advisory boards for national retailers and grocers.

Alaskan Brewing Company said in a statement that co-founders Marcy and Geoff Larson will also remain actively engaged in the business following the CEO change.

Alaskan Brewing Company’s products are sold in 25 states of the US. The business said it is among the top-50 US brewers in volume sales, though would not disclocse exact figures.