(Halethorpe, MD) – Clipper City Brewing Founder and Owner, Hugh Sisson, confirmed this week that Ernesto Igot is out as the company’s brewmaster after working for the maker of Heavy Seas Beer for twelve years.

Sisson says Igot, a 36-year beverage industry veteran, left on his own accord, hinting that growth in the ballpark of 50% can make for stressful times. “We certainly wish Ernie all the best and are grateful for the years he spent with us. His breadth of experience certainly helped establish Heavy Seas as one of the country’s faster growing breweries.”

The company is in the midst of a search for a new brewmaster. Chris Mallon is currently listed as the company’s Senior Brewer.

Clipper City grew 54% last year, surpassing the 30,000 barrel-mark, according to The Brewers Association.