Steph Howard | Barrett Burston Malting

Steph Howard has been appointed as Barrett Burston Malting’s new Director of Sales & Marketing.

In a statement annnouncing the appointment, Barrett Burtson said that Steph had been an essential part of Cryer Malt and nore recently Barrett Burston.

“With a career that encompasses multiple facets of the industry, Steph brings unprecedented knowledge and experience to this new role,” the company said.

In 2021, Howard was recognised by the Independent Brewers Association as Young Gun of the Year and last year was appointed to the APAC Division Board of the Institute of Brewing and Distilling.

“The drinks industry feels like home to me, and I’ve spent the majority of my professional career in it. I am proud to be able to make a difference and champion it in my day-to-day life,” she said

“My new role gives me the opportunity to take that further and share my knowledge and expertise both internally and externally to help develop and empower our team and customers.”

Blair Stewart | NZ Hops

Blair Stewart has been appointed Chief Executive Officer for the NZ Hops co-operative.

Stewart joined NZ Hops just under one year ago as General Manager of Sales and Marketing.

“In today’s highly competitive global industry, resting on the success of the past is no longer an option. We need visionary leadership with a constant focus on fresh thinking and innovative development, and Blair embodies these qualities wholeheartedly,” said NZ Hops Chair Maurice Noone.

“We have an incredible product, a world-class breeding programme, and exceptional growers,” Blair said.

“We want more consumers worldwide to experience the remarkable flavours of our hops, and cement New Zealand’s position at the top of the global hop market.”

Pip Widdon | NZ Hops

Pip Widdon has joined NZ Hops as Chief Financial Officer.

Widdon joins the cooperative from Deloitte wghere she lead projects in budgeting and system transitioning, and before that as Financial Planning and Commercial Manager at Alliance Group working on margin optimisation projects. Other roles include Financial Analyst at both Citycare and PwC.

“I am excited to work with NZ Hops at this pivotal time, providing financial leadership and guidance to the executive team and board of directors. I look forward to contributing to their financial decision-making, their sustainability, and growth,” Widdon said.