Brisbane’s Newstead Brewing has appointed ex-Pirate Life chief executive John Phinney as their new CEO after a comprehensive national search.

Newstead said in a statement John (pictured) has a track record of building branded food and drink businesses across the globe, and his growth mindset and detailed knowledge of the Australian craft brewing industry make him the perfect fit for their growing team. While at Pirate Life he oversaw rapid expansion both pre and post the acquisition by Carlton and United Breweries.

“I’m very excited to be joining Newstead as their first externally hired CEO,” John said. “The Howes family have put a lot of faith in me to help guide Newstead into its next chapter, and I’m very grateful to be given that opportunity. I’m eager to bring what I’ve learned in prior roles and add my voice to that of the team at Newstead, and I’m also really looking forward to returning to a family-owned business.

“Newstead have a great brand, great beer, and great venues – including a newly opened site at Brisbane Airport – and I can’t wait to build on that fantastic foundation over the coming months and years.”

Prior to Pirate Life, John held various C-level management roles at Sundrop Farms, an innovative sustainable food production company.

This included time as Managing Director for Australia, where he delivered a first of its kind greenhouse and renewable energy facility on the edge of the desert in South Australia.

Prior to Sundrop, John worked in senior roles in fast-growing FMCG companies in Brazil and the USA.

Founder and Director of Newstead, Mark Howes said: “Having John on board will facilitate the growth of the company in an increasingly challenging environment. I am confident this will allow us to realise the full potential of both our people and facilities in an incredibly exciting new direction for Newstead.”

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