SP appoints local talent as brewery manager

Newly appointed brewery manager for SP Brewery Port Moresby, Noel Pepemik (Image: Supplied)

SP Brewery has appointed Noel Pepemik as the new manager for its Port Moresby Brewery, marking a major milestone in localizing senior operational leadership within the company.

Pepemik earns the promotion following 14 years of dedicated service across various roles within the organization.

Hailing from Boikin in East Sepik, Pepemik overcame early personal hardship, losing his father at age 10, before completing his schooling with the support of his family. He attended Boikin Primary School and Brandi Secondary School before graduating from the Papua New Guinea University of Technology with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Chemistry.

After struggling to find employment as a fresh graduate, Pepemik joined SP Brewery in 2012 through its Graduate Development Program.

"It’s never easy finding your first job as a fresh graduate, and I was no different," Pepemik said. "SP Brewery gave me my first opportunity through its Graduate Development Program, and I remain grateful for that."

Over the past decade, Pepemik advanced through several key roles, including Brewing Supervisor, Brewing Manager in Lae [2020], Packaging Manager, and Acting Brewery Manager in Port Moresby [2025].

He attributed his progression to personal sacrifice, continuous learning, and strong mentorship from former senior industry figures, including the late Kuri Yuwai, Gia Vela, and Stella Ikasa.

"Many sacrifices were made along the way," Pepemik said. "I spent countless hours developing myself, often coming to work on weekends and days off to complete training and other development activities without expecting extra pay. That was my personal commitment to growth."

Pepemik emphasized that one of his most fulfilling achievements has been mentoring younger staff into leadership roles, noting that effective leadership involves preparing others to step up alongside you.

Encouraging young Papua New Guineans aspiring to build careers in the industry, Pepemik advised that commitment, discipline, and a drive for continuous self-development remain the key factors to professional success.