NZACS

Steve O'Brien - Imperial Tobacco

31-01-2024

It is with great sadness that I inform you our NZACS Management committee member, Stephen O’Brien, passed away peacefully in Dunedin early this week.

Steve was an integral and valued member of the Imperial Brands NZ&PI team for 31 years and served as a committee member of NZACS for several years since the departure of Peter Glass.

Brad Topp – Market Manager NZ and Pacific Islands for Imperial Brands noted the following about Steve in their internal communication this week.

“Steve joined Imperial in November 1992 and held several roles over the years, including sales rep, area sales manager, national sales manager, and most recently key account manager. His dry wit, unflappable work style, direct no-nonsense approach and incredible knowledge and experience he willingly shared with others left an indelible mark on us all.”

“His loyalty to Imperial was unmatched. Steve was much more than a colleague. He was an amazing friend, mentor, manager, and an integral member of the Imperial Brands family. His impact on Imperial Brands Australasia has been immense, and his legacy will always influence us in the future.”

“Steve was stoic throughout his illness and remained committed to Imperial till the end. We are pleased he was able to spend his last days surrounded by his wonderful family in his beloved hometown of Dunedin.”

Steve has supported NZACS as a regular participant at almost all events over the last 20 years plus as an engaged and committed committee member.

As an Association we express sincere condolences to his family and many close colleagues who will miss him greatly.

Dave Hooker
Executive Director NZACS