Management
Richard Bennett
Dip Dairy Tech (Food)
General Manager & Director
Richard was appointed General Manager in early 2011. While still at school Richard spent his holidays learning the craft of cheese making and won his first cheese in award in 1997. After studying Dairy Technology at the University of Melbourne, Richard returned to the business as a specialist cheese maker and became chief cheese maker in 2001. Over the years Richard has been responsible for the development of our new products and many of the awards we have received. Richard is Captain of the local Fire Brigade.
MBA(Prof Communications), BFA (Fine Arts), Dip Bus,
Marketing & Communications Manager
Anne is responsible for marketing and communication of all our products. Prior to joining in 2012, Anne had over 15 years of hospitality and small business experience, having owned cafes and catering businesses in central Hobart. Anne is responsible for our participation in major fine food events around Australia – including Taste of Tasmania and the Food & Wine Shows – and is passionate about fresh Tasmanian produce.
BAqua
Cheese Production Manager
Shane is our Production Manager and oversees all aspects of cheese production. Shane joined Ashgrove Cheese in 2007 and as well as being a cheese maker, supervises the team involved in making our premium quality products. Shane graduated with a degree in Aquaculture from the University of Tasmania. He is a keen angler and lives in Sheffield.
Tasmanian Milk Sales & Distribution ManagerRoy joined Ashgrove Cheese in 2009 after 15 years’ experience with one of Australia’s major retailers including as a supermarket manager. Roy is responsible for our milk, cream and butter sales in Tasmania. Roy is originally from New Zealand and although now a Tasmanian remains an avid All Blacks supporter.
Jordan Szmekura
GradCertBus(Mgt), GradDipBus(Adm), MBus(Mgt)
National Account Manager
Jordan joined our team in 2016, with over 18 years’ experience in the FMCG industry he is responsible for maintaining and expanding relationships with our key national accounts and customers.Throughout his career, Jordan has worked for some of Australia’s largest food companies in various account management and project management roles