National industry body, Spirits & Cocktails Australia (SCA), has appointed Steven Fanner as executive director. Fanner will be based in Canberra, as the organisation moves its headquarters from Sydney to the capital.
SCA chair and Diageo Australia managing director, Dan Hamilton, said the board was thrilled to have someone of Fanner’s calibre in the role.
For the last five years, Fanner was chief communications officer and head of government relations at the Australian National University.
Prior to that he was deputy CEO at health insurance lobby group, Private Healthcare Australia, and held senior positions in the Australian Hotels Association including in national alcohol policy.
“We are thrilled a leader of Steven’s calibre with experience in political advocacy and strategic communications, and a deep understanding of our sector, is joining us at a time when the sector is looking to refocus its representation,” Hamilton said.
“There are significant economic gains to unlock from spirits in Australia. Steven will play an integral role working across the spirits and beverage industries to help realise these benefits.”
Fanner said he was looking forward to working with others across the beverage industry to find common ground.
“This is an industry with a reputation for innovation and excellence. I’m looking forward to working with Australia’s emerging local producers and some of the world’s most recognisable brands.
“At a time where the federal government is seriously looking at Australia’s long-term economic sustainability, there is an excellent opportunity to address some of the inequities faced by distillers in current policy settings.”
“Already I’ve been able to meet new industry colleagues and reconnect with others. I’ll be focused on finding opportunities to work collaboratively where we have shared goals,” Fanner said.
