The Managing Director of the largest Australian-owned brewery, Coopers, has announced his retirement.

As part of a planned succession strategy, fifth-generation family member Dr Tim Cooper will step down as Managing Director of Coopers Brewery after 23 years at the helm.
Michael Shearer, currently General Manager, will take on the position of Managing Director.
The company will continue to be family owned and run, with the Board, chaired by fifth generation family member Mel Cooper, having a majority of Directors who are members of the Cooper family. Dr Tim Cooper will remain on as a Director and Chief Brewer where he will continue to provide his input on brewing and technical matters.

(Tim Cooper & Michael Shearer)

The transition, effective from March 1, comes with Coopers at a notable stage of development, having recently opened its $70 million “new home” at Regency Park and growing beer sales across the country and overseas.

Following an increase in beer sales of 1.5% for the 2024 financial year, sales have grown year-to-date by 3.7%, while the national beer market continues to contract. “To lead Coopers Brewery over the past 23 years has been both a privilege and a fulfilment. We have an impressive team at Coopers and together we have achieved more than what any of us could have imagined,” Dr Tim Cooper said.

(Bill Coopers, Maxwell Cooper and Tim Cooper at Leabrook Brewery site circa 1990) 

“My aspiration when I joined the brewery in 1990 was to carry on the family legacy. Prior to taking over as MD from my father Bill, I had the rewarding responsibility for the design and development of the new brewery at Regency Park.

“However, no one could have predicted our growth after relocating the brewery. We embraced leading edge technology, a positive culture and a passion for beer quality. We took a strategic direction in 2002 to establish an interstate sales business which grew our beer distribution strongly. Our national market share increased from 1.5% to 5% within 15 years.

“Our growth did not go unnoticed by our competitors. We faced a hostile takeover bid in 2005, which we endured with the loyal support of our shareholders and a vigorous defence by our legal team.

“Over the years, we have invested more than $400 million at the Regency Park site, expanding our production and packaging capability, and re-entering the malt market with the construction of our onsite maltings in 2017. Taking on the brewing of partner brands has provided additional scope for our operations and commercial success.
“More recently I have been delighted to work with my daughter Louise and colleagues on the development of our world-class visitor centre. With the support of my fellow directors and shareholders, we have reinvested profit and taken on debt to pursue our expansion and diversification strategies. Coopers remains in a strong position.

“Michael is an exceptional leader who has been instrumental to Coopers’ growth. I step down knowing that the company is on a steady path and will be in safe hands under Michael’s stewardship. Brewing is in my blood, and I will continue to work at Coopers alongside my son Iain and the brewing team.”

Michael Shearer has been with Coopers for 20 years, the past six as General Manager where he has been responsible for the company’s day-to-day operations.
“It is an honour to be appointed as Managing Director of a great Australian company with such a significant heritage and exciting future,” Michael said.

“Tim is one of the true legends of Australian brewing. His fearless and inspiring leadership has seen Coopers grow to become the country’s largest independent brewery, while remaining authentic and true to its heritage.

“Under Tim’s leadership, Coopers has cemented its reputation for brewing great tasting, value-for-money Australian beer. In addition to maintaining our strength in DIY brewing products, we have also become a leading supplier of malt and recently diversified into whisky production.

“I look forward to working with my fellow Board members, including sixth-generation Andrew Cooper, as well as other sixth-generation Coopers currently within the business. Along with our management team and our dedicated employees, we will continue to build on Coopers’ success in the years to come.”