Michael Capaldo picking up a trophy for Sydney Brewery

Hop Products Australia (HPA) is excited to announce that former Sydney Brewery and Lovedale Brewery Head Brewer Michael Capaldo, has joined the team as a Sales Representative, effective immediately.

In this role, Michael will be working alongside Sales and Marketing Manager Owen Johnston to provide on-the-ground support to brewers across New South Wales and Queensland. HPA Managing Director Tim Lord said he was thrilled with the new appointment.

“Having Michael on the team allows us to provide a better service to our brewers based in the ACT, Queensland and New South Wales and we’re excited to work more closely with them on issues ranging from supply surety through to technical advice,” he said.

Michael got his first taste of the brewing industry as a packaging assistant at Little Creatures in 2007, and soon moved into a production brewing role with Gage Roads while completing a Graduate Diploma of Brewing through Edith Cowan University.

Eventually Michael took the leap to become head brewer for the Sydney and Lovedale beer and cider brands, where he spent the best part of the last decade managing the beer and cider production of two sites.

While at Lovedale, Michael led the team to winning coveted trophies at the Australian International Beer Awards and Royal Sydney Show within it’s very first year of operation in 2014. Through his time as head brewer and within previous roles, Michael brings with him more than 10 years’ experience in the Australian craft beer industry.

On making the jump to HPA, Michael says, “As a brewer, I’ve had experience working with Australian hops and I’m incredibly excited to play a bigger role in providing these flavours to other beer brands that I know and love”.

“Coming from the production side, I understand the needs and requirements of HPA customers and can provide practical knowledge and insight to get the best outcome. I’m ready to get out in front of the industry, and work to get great Australian hops into great Australian brewed beers.”

The appointment of a committed Sales Representative for the ACT, Queensland and NSW comes in response to the rising popularity of HPA’s proprietary flavour and aroma hops, and a commitment to provide added accessibility for customers. Brewers will need to come direct to HPA from the 2018 harvest onwards due to changes in local distribution.

Tim Lord continues; “Michael’s strong brewing background means he’ll be able to offer invaluable insight to new and existing customers across Australia, something we value highly.”