Your Future in Sales & Marketing

Send us a textIn this insightful episode, Ben Slocombe, Head of Marketing at Liquor Marketing Group and former Business Unit Director at Coca-Cola Amatil, joins Ben Carnegie to explore the key lessons and leadership qualities that have shaped his dynamic career across the FMCG and retail sectors.Reflecting on his journey from global beverage giants to leading marketing for a member-owned retail group, Ben shares how challenging moments and career agility have driven his growth from seeking feedback and mentorship to navigating business complexity with a mix of commercial acumen and creativity.He also unpacks the evolving role of retailers, the balance between short-term results and long-term brand building, and the value of staying curious, building networks, and owning the full marketing mix.With practical advice for future leaders, marketers, and professionals across fast-paced industries, this episode is a rich conversation about leadership, learning, and how to stay ahead in an ever-changing landscape. 

Send us a textIn this insightful episode, Eddie Balemian, ANZ General Manager at Perrigo Company, joins Mike to share the story behind his rise in the global consumer health industry.With a career spanning major FMCG players and now leading Perrigo's growth across Australia and New Zealand, Eddie unpacks the leadership principles that have shaped his journey — including his open-door approach, belief in empowering teams, and balancing commercial performance with a people-first culture.From navigating the challenges of multinational operations to unlocking local market potential, this episode is full of practical insights for emerging leaders, FMCG professionals, and anyone passionate about building great teams in high-growth environments.

Send us a textIn this insightful episode, Toby Hilliam, CEO of Appetise, joins Andrew to share the journey behind his entrepreneurial career in Australia's tech and food delivery space.Toby's path includes founding two businesses, Mutu and now Appetise - where he's learned first hand what it takes to solve meaningful problems and create something customers truly need.He shares his experience in building with intention, the importance of product-market fit, and why keeping the heart of the customer at the centre is non-negotiable for long-term success. From scrappy startup beginnings to scaling a purpose-led platform, this episode is packed with practical wisdom for founders, operators, and anyone looking to build something that lasts.

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode, Samantha Hutson, General Manager at Nudie Foods, sits down with Mike to share the journey behind her impressive career in Australian & UK FMCG. Samantha's career seen her develop her tier 1 FMCG skills in the UK and Australia and apply them in a fast growth Aussie FMCG market leader with Nudie, first as Head of Sales and now as GM. She shares insights into navigating fast-paced sales environments, building high-performing teams, and how staying curious and commercially sharp helped her seize each new opportunity. From global corporates to proudly homegrown brands, this chat covers it all.

Send us a textIn this insightful chat, Tom Press, Sales Director for Key Pharmaceuticals (previously Sales Director for Microsoft ANZ) sat down with Mike to chat about his career and life and about all the serendipitous cross-overs in between. Tom shares his insights about his long-standing career in the FMCG industry, why he then made the (successful) transition into the world of tech in a highly competitive candidate market, and then finally, how the FMCG world drew him back in! 

Send us a textIn the latest episode of the Your Future in Sales & Marketing podcast, Mike Dickson sat down with Graham Fairbairn, Head of Sales & Marketing for Mutti pasta sauces to talk all things career, life and travels! Graham talks about being a global citizen, having lived and worked in over 10 different countries; his diverse FMCG career, the concept of the ‘imposter syndrome,' and his relocation to Italy to grow the Mutti pasta sauce brand over there. Graham has lived a very interesting life and has collected so many wonderful experiences along the way, which he gracefully shares with us on the podcast! It's well worth a listen! 

Send us a textIn this amazing crossover episode, Mike Dickson is joined by not one, but two FMCG powerhouses, Dan Bitti, APAC Marketing Director for Jack Link's & Justin O'Sullivan, Sales Director for Jack Link's to share their career insights, the journey and ambition of Jack Link's and ask the big question: What is the difference between Jerky and Biltong?Key highlights include: How they got to where they are today Building the global Jack Link's brand in a market like Australia, where it was relatively unknown and new to consumers The best ways sales and marketing can work together to grow a brand The difference between beef jerky and biltong (and yes, there is one!)Why passion, grit and determination will get you everywhere So, grab your coffee (and perhaps some beef jerky?) and tune in! 

Send us a textWe're back with our first senior leader on the pod for 2025, Kerry (Kez) Appathurai, National Sales Director at Lion – and what a story she has to tell! In this insightful chat, Kez sat down with Mike Dickson to share her journey to becoming a sales director, what it's like working in the consumer beverages space, paving the way for women in leadership, her role in the formation of the AACS Women In Convenience group, why it's so important to love what you do, and so much more! You won't want to miss this one, so tune in now! 

Send us a textIn this special episode of the podcast, [axr] Sales & Marketing recruiters, Andrew Cannock and Ben Carnegie sat down to talk all this jobs, market trends, skills in demand and more! It's packed full of insights, as they talk through: Trends we saw emerging in 2024 and how that impacted marketing, sales and category jobs. What we can expect to see in 2025. How candidates can set themselves to make great career decisions in 2025 and how the team at [axr] can help you with that.The 4 P's of job searching.It's a fantastic listen - tune in now!  

Send us a textBack by popular demand - our review of the [axr] 2025 Salary Guide! In this episode, Andrew Cannock & Ben Carnegie give you a deep dive into our latest salary guide, including: What to expect from Sales, Marketing & Category roles in 2025 Market trends and industry insights What the numbers meanWhat we are looking for as recruiters when recruiting these roles and how we refer back to this guide  Role scope and in-demand skills for each role type How to level up in your career and make great career decisionsIt's a great listen, so tune in now, and don't forget to download our 2025 salary guide here: https://bit.ly/2025-salary-guide

Send us a textIn the latest epsiode of [axr]'s 'How To' career series Amanda Dinte, Zara Church and Amelia Kettle sat down to share their top tips for resigning effectively.Highlights include: The main reasons why someone leaves a role, including: access to opportunities they are not getting in their current role, lifestyle factors, along with company culture and issues with management. Advice they would give to people wanting to make a move and why it's important to explore all your options first before taking that leap of faith. The best way to have that conversation with your manager if you have decided to leave – approach the conversation rationally and level-headed. Be prepared. How to navigate a counteroffer and what it really means.If you're looking to make your next move, listen in now for some great advice! 

Send us a textIn the latest epsiode of [axr]'s 'How To' career series, Nick Constain, Andrew Cannock and Kunal Gupta sat down to discuss what you can do to get yourself interview ready! Highlights include: First impressions matter Demonstrate your interest in the business – do your research Be authentic about who you are as a person, and your career historyThe best way to approach the strengths vs weaknesses question Using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or CAR method (Context, Action, Result) If you're looking to nail your next interview, tune in now! 

Send us a textIn the latest epsiode of [axr]'s 'How To' career series, Nick Constain, Amanda Dinte and Zara Church sat down to discuss the elements that make up a good resume and what will get you noticed. Highlights include: Keep it simple - don't overly complicate the message Treat your first page as your elevator pitch Context is important The value add to your resume is your achievements and how you measure those achievements Is a cover letter required? Get noticed online by optimising your LinkedIn profile - make sure it matches your resume. If you're looking to refresh your resume and get noticed, tune in now!

Send us a textTo celebrate our milestone 100th episode of the Your Future in Sales & Marketing podcast, we held a live event with all past guests, and turned the tables on podcast host Mike Dickson - this time, the interviewer got interviewed!! With Trish Pegorer, MD for Mutti Australia at the helm firing off the questions, Mike shared his insights on: His own career journey from Brand Management to Recruitment Joining [axr] and building the Sales & Marketing practiceThe importance of budling and supporting careers, not just filling jobsThe evolution of the podcast and quirky moments with guests What he has learnt from his guests, including: careers should not be linear – gather experiences, maximise your potential, be patient, only you own your own career.  What's next for the pod?Guests also got a chance to ask some questions of Mike, and there were some curly ones in there! It was a night of fun and laughter and well worth a listen! 

Send us a textAs we edge towards episode 100 of the pod, Mike Dickson sat down with Clare Darroch, Global Director of Sales for Vida Glow to talk about her varied and diverse career. Full of amazing insights, she shares her thoughts on: Falling into sales after originally wanting to go into marketing, and how it's the best thing that's ever happened to her, career-wise.  The concept of manifesting and taking a positive approach to life and career. Why having a stint in category will help you in an FMCG sales role. The amazing growth journey of Vida Glow and how excited she is to be part of an organisation that is doing some amazing things in the market. Her philosophy on work/life balance and how you don't get paid for the minutes that you work, but rather the output that you produce.Why it's so important to always be open to opportunities and never live with regret.It's an amazing listen, so grab your headphones and tune in now! 

Send us a text In this episode of Your Future in Sales and Marketing, Mike Dickson sat down with Kurt Hegvold, VP Commercial Area Head and Managing Director ANZ, Electrolux to talk all things career, life and leadership! Kurt talks: Favourite brands, including Patagonia and their success with being purpose-led.How he started out in psychology and ended up in FMCG by chance. Why he has always been open to exploring new paths and new opportunities.The experience of working for large Tier 1 FMCG organisations such as PepsiCo, Unilever and Coca Cola. Why he always maintains a high level of curiosity in his career and brings a growth mindset to everything he does. Finding those watershed moments in your career.The best companies to work for as those that have a strong connection to their purpose and values and live those values every day.The difference between being a functional leader, where the focus is more on your technical skillset, vs a senior leader where the focus shifts to your soft skills. Kurt has some amazing insights to share, so grab your headphones and listen in now!  

Send us a textIn this insightful episode of our Future Leader Series, Andrew Cannock and Amelia Kettle sat down with Samantha Corrigan, Customer Marketing Manager for SC Johnson to talk all things career, life and hobbies!   In this episode, Samantha shared her thoughts on: Her varied and interesting career journey and how it's always been a combination of "intention and circumstance." Why she is always looking for new roles that are going to challenge her, widen her knowledge and "bridge the gap." Being a Joe Berry award finalist and what that meant to her.Her passion for mentoring and coaching Why she would love to work overseas, have a side hustle and scale it. The only thing left to do is grab your headphones and tune in! 

Send us a textIn this latest episode of our Future Leader Series, Andrew Cannock and Amelia Kettle sat down with Matthew May, Head of Sales, Woolworths for Inghams to talk all things FMCG, career aspirations, what it takes to be a good leader and advice for his younger self! It's a great listen - tune in now!  

Send us a textIn this episode of the podcast, Mike Dickson sat down with loyalty powerhouses, Sue Temple, Founder & General Manager of L-Founders and Hollie Fenning, Head of Customer Planning & Continuity for the Coles Group to talk all things loyalty, customer brand and data in retail.Between them, they have had some amazing career experiences, working in loyalty, customer, brand and data for the likes of Woolworths & Disney.It's a great episode, full of amazing insights and tips on how to keep your customers loyal, how loyalty is evolving and how to make a career in this unique space. Tune in now to have your loyalty card stamped!

Send us a textIn this special episode of the podcast, Mike Dickson sat down with former engineer, turned Sales professional, turned business owner, Steve Dumpleton to talk about his new business venture NorthStar Negotiation, career success and the role negotiation plays in career decision making. Steve shares his pearls of wisdom when it comes to the principles of negotiation, including: Be very clear on what your objective is It's not about you, it's about them Leverage is keyDelivery and communication style is importantManaging emotions – perception vs perspectiveNegotiation for many can be difficult, so this episode is one not to be missed! Tune in now!  

Send us a textIn this special episode of the podcast, two worlds collide as Mike Dickson & Andrew Cannock sit down for a joint interview with Future Leader (Sophie Scott, Customer Director for Woolworths Group) and Senior Leader (Michelle Foley, Chief Customer Officer for The Arnotts Group) to talk all things Sales, namely: Where is the Sales function now? What journey is it on? How has it evolved?  What does the future of the Sales function look like?What does a career in Sales look like? Sophie and Michelle also tackle the misconceptions people have about sales and why it's so much more than just hitting numbers and targets! This is a must listen podcast for anyone aspiring to a Sales career in FMCG, if you're looking to take that next step in your career or you're interested in finding out more about what Sales professionals actually do! 

Send us a textIn this episode, Mike continues his journey of speaking to great Scottish leaders, sitting down with the enigmatic Michael King, Sales Director for Haleon. Michael talks career, life, travel, people and how he got to be where he is today.Key highlights:   ·         His journey from Scotland to Australia ·         How he fell into a Sales career and made it his own ·         Leaving FMCG to start his own company and what drew him back into the Corporate Sales world again·         The importance of creating a good company culture and being the type of leader who encourages personal and professional development amongst their staff ·         Why you should always be your authentic self in life and businessIt's a fascinating listen, check it out now!  

Send us a Text Message.In this fascinating chat, Mike Dickson sat down with Laura Johnson, the wearer of many hats (and no, we're not talking about actual hats!)With a career that has spanned both Marketing and Recruitment, Laura has achieved a lot, and is now the Founder of Strivin,' an initiative that helps professionals find connections and access content that will fast-forward their career growth. She is also a published author of a book about Women in Leadership, and she still has more to achieve! Impressive as she is humble, this is an episode not to be missed. To learn more about Laura's book, check out the link here: https://lnkd.in/giuXGm-2

Send us a Text Message.In this exciting episode of the podcast, Mike spoke to Mark Powell, Chief Customer Officer at Inghams. With his trademark enthusiasm and honesty, Mark shares his very interesting and diverse career, from accounting to sales, wine to chickens and taking bold risks along the way. Tune in for some great insights on his philosophy of cultivating culture before performance and his tips on empowering highly engaged teams. This podcast is jam packed with amazing insights and career advice - so grab your headset and listen now!

Send us a Text Message.In the second episode of our 'How to Series,' [axr] recruiters Amelia Kettle, Kunal Gupta and Connor Weetman sat down to talk about some key things to consider when you're looking to take that next step in your career, but are unsure as to what that might look like. Key highlights include: Assessment your current mood for change - does your job bring you joy and are you happy to get up in the morning and go to work, or does it invoke feelings of dread?Researching salary guides in your industry / job to see if you are being paid market rate - this can help you to decide what your next step might be. Having someone you can speak confidentially with about your career goals and aspirations - for example a mentor, a friend or your friendly recruiter! Listen now for some great insights and useful tips! 

Send us a Text Message.In this first episode of our Future Leaders Series of the podcast, hosts Andrew Cannock & Amelia Kettle talk to Pete Doran, former Customer Marketing Manager for V2 Food.In this candid chat, Pete speaks vulnerably about his experience with redundancy and how he juggles his career with life, being a father to both a human and fur-child and having a career-driven wife who travels frequently (and gets a few honorable mentions). Can you have it all? Find out in this candid chat with an impressive future leader!

Send us a Text Message.In this special episode of the podcast, Mike Dickson sat down with FMCG extraordinaire, Paul Bull to talk about his new venture Mindpick and the exciting new ‘Growth Pods' that are launching soon!So, what is a Growth Pod? Paul describes it an “innovative career coaching and mentoring service designed specifically for FMCG professionals to help them navigate the complexities of the FMGC world, sharpen their thinking and execute more effectively.”    [axr] are excited to be partnering with Mindpick to support the Growth Pods. In this podcast, Paul shares his insights into how this new coaching service came about and what people will get out of it. Listen in now and if you are interested in joining a Growth Pod, you can register here. 

Send us a Text Message.In this pod, Mike Dickson speaks to Rachel Humphrey, Marketing Director of Mars Food. Rachel share some amazing insights into her career and tips for aspiring marketing leaders, along with discussing:  Why she loves marketing and how it all started with a pen! The power of storytellingThe move from the UK to Australia and how it sparked a different path in her career The difference between brand development and brand management and what she loves about both! The importance of intelligent risk taking and raging curiosity in marketing  It's an episode not to be missed! Tune in now. 

Send us a Text Message.In this mini pod, Mike sat down with Rachel Humphrey, Marketing Director of Mars Foods.She talks being like Aldi - "good different" and Ted Lasso as the ultimate leader! It's one not to be missed. Tune in next Thursday at 9am for the full chat! 

Send us a Text Message.Tune in for a pod with a difference! In this episode, Mike interviews Richard Morgan, Founder of Freedom Funding, about how to build financial wealth whilst building your career. He talks:The move from FMCG sales to property development and wealth creation Turning a side hustle into a career The experience of starting from scratch in a new industryThe similarities between career management and wealth management – how to make good financial decisions that align with a good career decision.

Send us a Text Message.This week's rapid fire is with Richard Morgan, founder of Freedom Funding and former FMCG sales professional.  He talks career advice and who he would most like to work with.Stay tuned for the FULL PODCAST which will be live next Thursday at 9am!

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, we get candid with Elizabeth Miller, GM for Manassen Foods as she shares some amazing insights on life and career, including: Life in Scotland and what brought her to Australia Her start in Chemical Engineering and how she decided it wasn't for her Taking opportunities as they come and stepping up into leadership roles Importance of taking jobs that are fulfilling and where she is adding value  Why it's okay not to know everything It's a chat not to be missed. Tune in now! 

In this mini pod, Elizabeth Miller, General Manager of Manassen Food Group, talks the 3 C's that describe her, meeting Richard Branson, and her biggest career achievement.Stay tuned for the FULL PODCAST which will be live next Thursday at 9am!

 Join us for an insightful chat with Paul Hennessy, Sales Director for Moet Hennessy.Paul has had an amazingly fascinating career as a citizen of the world, having worked both overseas and locally for big brand names including: Wella, Loreal, Diageo and, now, Moet Hennessy. In this chat, he talks about: his start in recruitment and the old school methodology (think Yellow Pages!); why he made the move to FMCG from recruitment; the importance of brand;  the intersection of life and career; and the best interview question he has heard! It's a chat not to be missed. Tune in now! 

In this mini-pod, Mike Dickson gets to know Paul Tucker, Sales Director at Moet Hennessy with 5 rapid fire questions! Stay tuned for the FULL PODCAST which will be live next Thursday at 9am!

Join Mike Dickson as he guides Philippa Moig, Group Business Director &New Business Lead of PHD, through a live  interview-preparation session, offering invaluable tips on enhancing the storytelling aspect of her career journey, leveraging her strengths, addressing development areas, and mastering the art of answering competency-based questions. Philippa also shares insights from her transformative experience in The Marketing Academy, a prestigious program in the marketing industry.

What happened in the job market for Sales, Marketing and Category in 2023 and what can we expect to see in 2024? In this episode, Mike is joined by [axr] Sales & Marketing Consultants, Andrew Cannock & Amelia Kettle as they share their insights on the year that was, predictions for the year ahead, and the roles that will be in high demand in 2024. Highlights include: * Organisations will have to be more creative in their approach to retention * Flexibility is still very much an important consideration * There's been an increase in roles in the innovation space - particularly in ecommerce and digital * The mid-market continues to be in high demand.* National Business Managers are back! It's one not to be missed - so pop your headphones on and get listening! 

In this special episode in our "How to" series, Mike Dickson sat down with [axr]'s Sales & Marketing Consultants, Andrew Cannock and Amelia Kettle to discuss how candidates can work with a recruiter effectively in order to get the best value out of the relationship. Key insights include: * Recruiters can only place about 5% of people that they meet - but they can help with career goals, directions and how you can best position yourself for success. * Do your research * Be clear about your career goals  * Be honest and authentic  * Don't wait until you are desperate for a role before reaching out! It's a great episode, with some very valuable insights shared and well worth a listen! 

In this special event podcast episode, we answer the age old question of who really runs the business? Broadcast live at the Campari Offices and with over 80 guests in attendance, we assembled an expert panel of senior FMCG leaders across Sales, Category, Marketing & Finance to put forward their case for why they think their function actually runs the business!There was lots of very healthy debate from our panelists (listed below) and some fantastic questions asked from our highly engaged audience. It's an episode not to be missed!Katie Steel -  Sales Director, Campari Sheri Juchau - Category Director, FerreroDerek Oliver - CEO, Vanessa Megan NaturaceuticalsJames Gregory - CFO, Leaders on Demand Tune in to see who the winner was! 

In the latest episode of the Your Future in Sales and Marketing Podcast, we speak to the engaging and effervescent John Foong, Chief Revenue Officer for Domain.  John has had an incredibly impressive career, working at powerhouses from the likes of Google, Uber, and now at Domain.  He talks about:His travels around the world and what that taught himWhy he wanted to be a Prime Minister as a child Why it's important to take every opportunity you can, being open and seeing where it takes you The toothbrush test and how it inspires innovationThe power of your network  Staying humble and not needing to have all the answersStopping to say thank you to those who have helped us on our journeyTaking every opportunity to listen and learn

In this week's Mini Pod, you'll hear quick-fire career insights from the Chief Revenue Officer for Domain, John Foong. Stay tuned for the FULL PODCAST which will be live next Thursday at 9am!

From Sales to Marketing and everything in between, Nicole Parker, Director of Marketing & eCommerce for Weber Barbecues, has had a very interesting and diverse career. We were lucky enough to sit down with her to find out what she has learnt along the way,  the advice she has for others wanting to take that step in up in their marketing career or if they want to pivot to a new area.She shared some excellent career advice, including the importance of:  ✅ Taking control and being in the driver's seat of your career ✅ Celebrating and sharing your accomplishments ✅ Being clear on your development areas ✅ Making it known where you want to go in your career ✅ Stepping outside of your functional area to get to know the business as a whole   It's an episode not to be missed – especially where she talks about meeting George Clooney! 

In this week's Mini Pod, you'll hear quick-fire career insights from the Director of Marketing and eCommerce ANZ with Weber Barbecues, Nicole Parker.Stay tuned for the FULL PODCAST which will be live next Thursday at 9am!

Marketers have the ability to change the world, and with that power comes great responsibility. Today's Episode features two Marketing legends, who were both selected for the prestigious Marketing Academy:Jade Lish, Head of Marketing, v2 FoodJane King, Head of Marketing Communications, Cartology (Woolworths Group)This dynamic duo had a transparent and hilarious chat with Mike Dickson about sliding door moments in their unique careers, the power of empathy & vulnerability in the workplace, and the art of effective communication. They agreed on a top piece of advice for getting the most out of your career: embrace lifelong learning!This Pod Episode is a definite MUST for your Christmas holiday playlist.

In this week's Mini Pod, you'll hear quick-fire career insights from inspiring and honest Head of Marketing Communicatons with Cartology, Jane King. Stay tuned for the FULL PODCAST with Jade Lish which will be live next Thursday at 9am!

In this week's Mini Pod, you'll hear quick-fire career insights from the cheeky and hilarious Head of Marketing for v2 Food, Jade Lish. Stay tuned for the FULL PODCAST with Jane King which will be live next Thursday at 9am!

From semi-conductors to sundried tomatoes. It's safe to say that Mimmo Lubrano's career has been unique. Along the way, he has made mistakes and learned tough (and expensive) lessons, but has also built a career full of love, family, freedom, and endless passion.In this engaging Episode, Mimmo's infectious energy shines through, and really makes you think about your own career. He reminds us to:Do something you LOVE and money will come laterEnrich the lives of those you work withDon't charge for advice, it will always come back around Take control of your own career - "a wheelbarrow won't move unless you push it"This Podcast has something for everyone - don't miss it!

In this week's Mini Pod, you'll hear quick-fire career insights from the passionate & dynamic Director of Sandhurst Fine Foods, Mimmo Lubrano.Stay tuned for the FULL PODCAST which will be live next Thursday at 9am!

Are you Category Curious? What is Category, and what does a career in this space look like?We gave Mike Dickson a little break and our very own Category expert Andrew Cannock took the reins, speaking with a star-studded line-up of specialists in this field:Angela Craven, Head of Category & Shopper, George Western FoodsChris McKay, Head of Category Development, ReckittKate Bean, Head of Category, RGM, Commercial Planning & Customer Marketing, KellanovaIn this Episode, our panellists demystify the secret society of this unique FMCG function, provide advice on how to turn a hobby into a profession, and why you should always work your networks; internally, externally, up AND down.Most importantly, listen to the connection between Category and Pizza!

Enjoy our new mini pod, an intro to our next on the Your Future in Sales and Marketing Podcast. In only a few minutes, you'll find out what makes them tick and gain an insight in what's to come. This week on Your Future in Sales and Marketing, we have CEO of V2 Food, Tim York,  Enjoy!