Hackett takes over from Duvenage as British American Tobacco PNG boss

BRITISH American Tobacco PNG (BATPNG) has appointed Jeremy Hackett as its general manager.
Hackett was head of marketing from 2017 to 2019 before being promoted to general manager for BAT Fiji.
He returned earlier this month to take over from Stephanus Duvenage who left in June.
“It is great to be back in PNG to meet with colleagues and friends,” he said.
“I loved my previous time in PNG, in particular working with, and growing local talent.
“I feel very proud and excited to return to lead the company in what has been a very challenging year all around the world.
“Like many companies, BATPNG has been negatively impacted by the Covid-19 along with many local small to medium enterprises that sell our products. The year has not been easy on people and businesses.
“In saying that, I would like to commend the Government on their response to keeping the people safe and also the multiple initiatives to stimulate economic and business activity,
“This direction is supported by BATPNG and we look forward to further Government action to support businesses during this tough time.”
Hackett also expressed concern on the rapid rise of illicit cigarettes while noting plans to work in partnership with the Government and enforcement authorities to address this issue.
“A report completed by FTI (a consulting firm) in 2018 stated the black economy of illicit cigarettes cost the Government K550 million in lost excise revenue in 2019. Unfortunately, illicit and counterfeit cigarettes continue to be sold across the markets,” Hackett said.