NZ Hops Ltd has announced Blair Stewart as their new CEO.
Chair Maurice Noone said: “We are thrilled to appoint Blair to this pivotal role as CEO. His exceptional track record in driving growth and expansion, coupled with his unwavering enthusiasm for the hop industry, has already proved invaluable to the company over the past year.
“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.”
Blair joined NZ Hops just under one year ago as general manager of sales and marketing and has developed a true appreciation for New Zealand-grown hops and their value around the world. His appointment follows the departure of former CEO Craig Orr last year.
“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.
“This is no easy task, but with the unwavering dedication of our team, the continuous support of our partners, and the passion driving our collective efforts, I am confident we can achieve this.”
NZ Hops has also welcomed Pip Widdon to the role of CFO. Pip describes herself as an experienced finance professional adept in business partnering and driving decisions that benefit both the organisation and its stakeholders.
“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.”
Pip has previously worked at Deloitte, leading 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.
This is an edited version of a media release distributed by NZ Hops Ltd.