Welcome to an insight to one of the World’s best job’s going around….
Meet Michael Jackson our Craft Beer Specialist for South Australia & the Northern Territory. Affectionately nicknamed Jacko for obvious reasons, Michael joined us at Malt Shovel Brewery back in March 2008, and has been selling, promoting, appreciating and enjoying, in moderation of course, the James Squire brand portfolio over the past two and a half years.
Jacko declares that it’s been a bit of a whirlwind journey, with never a dull moment being had. The life of a Craft Beer Specialist is a busy one with a variety of daily activities that certainly keep him on his toes. Asked about his current role at Malt Shovel Brewery Jacko goes on to say;
“What a great job, what other profession would enable you to work and participate, in an industry you love, with a product that you truly adore and with a chance to mix with a variety of great people whilst getting paid for it?”
As you may be able to pick up, Jacko is passionate about beer and loves nothing more that enjoying and learning about some of the fine products produced at The Malt Shovel Brewery.
He tells us that one of his most memorable moments was when he discovered the complexity and depth of Mad Brewers 10/20 Commemorative Ale release back in 2009. “I remember finding a quiet corner at home, after reading Chuck’s brewing notes on this beer . I savoured the amazing flavours, trying to appreciate, understand and acknowledge all the great attributes of the incredible liquid I was experiencing. Pure bliss.”
With the craft market growing in South Australia and the Northern Territory, there is always plenty of work on for Jacko .The “big mover “in terms of brand performance in SA would be Golden Ale. The local market has embraced the craft segment and with the great taste and flavour profile of our range this can only be a positive for Malt Shovel Brewery. Strong growth of Golden Ale on tap has also had a positive effect on take home sales. Jacko believes there is huge potential with Sundown Lager in the NT. It’s the perfect, refreshing beer for the climate conditions of Darwin and Alice Springs. At a recent AHA Expo held in Darwin Sundown Lager was popular hit with the locals.
Jacko also went onto tell us that his role isn’t all “beer & skittles”. There is also some challenging moments that he confronts in his day to day duties that need his full attention and application, but after getting through these challenges there’s always the chance to enjoy a cold Sundown Lager, once he knocks off for the day.
