Former Heineken Executive Director Peter Hart has returned to lead DB Breweries as its newly appointed Managing Director.
DB Breweries has announced the appointment of Peter Hart as Managing Director.
Hart succeeds Matt Wilson, who has led DB since 2021 and decided earlier this year to step away from the business. DB said that Wilson will remain at the company until the end of October to ensure a seamless transition.
Peter Hart started his career at Allied Liquor Merchants in the (then) Spirits & Wines division of DB Group. He was responsible for the launch of New Zealand’s first branded RTD, later moving to the brewery to lead the marketing relaunch of DB Draught, DB’s largest brand at the time, and oversaw the launch of Heineken in New Zealand.
Hart has 15 years of international experience working directly for Heineken across three continents, including leadership roles in Amsterdam and South Africa. He was most recently the founder and CEO of South Africa’s number-one independent beer and spirits distribution business.
Peter Hart said he is returning to New Zealand with a fresh lens and a sharp focus on unlocking growth across the DB business.
“I feel a deep sense of privilege to return home and lead one of New Zealand’s most iconic and pioneering companies,” said Hart.
“DB has all the ingredients for success; we’re locally led, locally brewed, and firmly rooted in the New Zealand hospitality industry.
DB will continue to be locally rooted, globally enabled, hospitality powered, and socialisation-led, with a clear ambition to innovate, grow and continue shaping how New Zealanders connect, celebrate, and socialise.
“I come as an insider with an outsider’s perspective,” he added.
“I’m a Kiwi and I understand DB’s DNA and heritage, but I also bring a fresh global perspective and a clear belief that our best chapter is still ahead.
Hart said that innovation remains at the heart of the journey, especially as DB accelerates its presence in the rapidly growing LoNo space, ensuring DB remains at the forefront of changing consumer preferences and industry trends.
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