Eibhlin Colgan

Eibhlin Colgan is the Archive Manager at Diageo, specifically overseeing the Guinness Archive located at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Ireland. She has held this position since 2001 and has dedicated over two decades to cataloging and preserving the rich history of the Guinness brand, which dates back to its founding in 1759.

Professional Background

• Role: As Archive Manager, Eibhlin is responsible for managing a vast collection of archival materials, including brewing books, trade ledgers, and personnel files. The collection is notable for its extensive paper records, which would stretch approximately 7 kilometers if laid end to end. It is also distinguished as the only corporate archive in Ireland that is open to the public.23
• Expertise: Eibhlin holds a General Certificate in Brewing from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling, which complements her archival skills with a deep understanding of brewing processes and history.2

Contributions and Philosophy

Eibhlin emphasizes the importance of community in her work, reflecting on how Guinness has been part of Irish culture for over two centuries. She aims to bring the brand's heritage to life while using it to inform contemporary innovations within Diageo.12 Her leadership has transformed the Guinness Archive into a "living archive," actively growing and adapting to include both digital and physical records.2

Advocacy for Women in Industry

Eibhlin is also an advocate for gender inclusion within the drinks industry. She acknowledges the historical challenges women have faced in this field but highlights significant progress made since the 1980s toward achieving equal opportunities for women at Guinness.1

In summary, Eibhlin Colgan is a prominent figure in preserving and promoting the legacy of Guinness while fostering an inclusive work environment at Diageo.