Hawke’s Brewing Co., the independently-owned beer company launched by Bob Hawke, has appointed industry stalwart, Vince Bateman, in the role of National Retail Accounts Manager.

Bateman brings over 25 years liquor industry experience in senior sales and capability roles, predominantly with CUB and Lion, managing sales teams and customers at both regional and national level, while supporting the development of Lion’s international business across Asia, the USA and the UK.

Bateman joins the Sydney-based Hawke’s team, led by National Sales Director, Stavros Yiannoukas, formerly of Young Henrys and Triple J.

Says Yiannoukas, “Before Bob passed, we promised him that we’d raise $1,000,000 for Landcare Australia by continuing to sell delicious beer, along with other fundraising efforts. We’re so excited to have Vince on board, as we know that it will be an enormous step towards keeping that promise to Hawkie.”

With the opening of Hawke’s brewery and hospitality arm sighted for late 2021, Bateman will be primarily tasked with setting up the subsequent expansion of the brand’s distribution into the Queensland and Victorian markets in FY22 and beyond.

Says Bateman, “I’m thrilled to join the Hawke’s team and look forward to playing my part in growing this exciting brand across the market. It’s an honour to represent and support the legacy left by Bob Hawke, a truly iconic Australian, in advocating his commitment to environmental initiatives.”