By Andy Young
Matt Tapper, national marketing director of Lion’s Australian beer and cider business, has been appointed in the newly created role of Managing Director Global Markets, Lion Beer, Cider & Wine.
The role will see Tapper report into Lion CEO Stuart Irvine.
Irvine said: "The opportunities for premium, trusted Australian brands in key Asian markets is well documented, and we see significant opportunity to grow our beer, cider and wine brands in this emerging region, while committing more focus to building our North American wine business.
"We established Lion Asia Dairy last year to capitalise on this opportunity with our trusted dairy brands and we have decided to dedicate the same focus to beer, cider and wine by establishing this new business unit under Matt’s leadership.
"Matt’s extensive experience and innovative thinking will be an asset to the Group Leadership Team and we congratulate him on the appointment."
Tapper said he was excited to start a new chapter for Lion’s beer, cider and wine brands abroad.
He said: "I have had the privilege of leading marketing strategy for the best drinks portfolio in the country, and helping to shape Lion’s vision for a vibrant and progressive beer category. I’m really energised by the potential of our beer and cider brands to engage new consumers with the same promise of craftsmanship and authenticity that have made them household names in Australia, while accelerating the growth of our wine business in North America.
"I have been supported by a hugely talented and passionate team and I have every confidence they will continue to grow our great brands for our customers and consumers here at home.”
Tapper will start in his new role on October 1, 2015 and Lion said that it will be making a further statement regarding the beer and cider marketing structure in Australia in due course.