New Zealand: DB Breweries appoints new managing director

DB Breweries has announced the appointment of Peter Hart as Managing Director, The Shout reported on October 1.

A strategic, globally experienced Kiwi leader, Hart has deep ties to the company, having 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 brings with him 15 years of international experience working directly for HEINEKEN across three continents, including leadership roles in Amsterdam and South Africa.

His return marks a significant moment for DB, as the business strives to leverage its global expertise while remaining deeply rooted in New Zealand, to enable it to lean into its next exciting chapter.

Most recently the founder and CEO of South Africa’s #1 independent beer and spirits distribution business, Hart returns to NZ 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,” says Hart.

“DB has all the ingredients for success; we’re locally led, locally brewed, and firmly rooted in the New Zealand hospitality industry.

“And with Star Hospitality Group now as part of our family, we’ve become New Zealand’s largest integrated brewing and hospitality group employing over 2000 people.

“Innovation remains at the heart of our journey – especially as we accelerate our presence in the rapidly growing LoNo space, ensuring DB remains at the forefront of changing consumer preferences and industry trends.”

Hart says he comes to the role as an insider with an outsider’s perspective.

“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,” he says.

“I’m here to lead the company in a way that not only positively impacts our bottom line, but also the way Kiwis experience beer, fun, and community connection in Aotearoa.”

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.

Hart succeeds Matt Wilson, who has led DB since 2021 and decided earlier this year to step away from the business. Wilson will remain at DB until the end of October to ensure a seamless transition.