Dr Heidi Grimmer completed her BSc and PhD studies at Wits University, complemented with studies at Sheffield University, focusing on applied research for a major multinational. During her postgraduate studies, she lectured in biochemistry at under- and postgraduate level. This was followed by a move to the flavour and brewing industry where she gained technical sales, applied research and operational experience. She holds the Institute of Brewing Diploma (IBD) from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling, London and an MBA (Edinburgh Business School).  She recently served as non-executive director and chairman of an Altx-listed company, and is member of SAAFoST and the Institute of Directors.