Meet The Team! Matt

We know how important it is to spotlight the great people working in our business, so in this latest ‘Meet The Team’ blog, we wanted to go straight to the top…

Introducing our very own top dog, head honcho, and esteemed Managing Director… Matt Willson!
Matt joined as Freedom’s MD in 2016 with 24 years in the brewing industry under his belt, including roles as Sales Director at Molson Coors and General Manager at Duvel Moortgat. Bringing with him a wealth of experience in the brewing and hospitality industry, his knowledge and entrepreneurial vision is influential in driving the growth of our amazing business, and keeping the rest of us in check!

Originally from Grimsby in North East Lincolnshire, Matt’s role is crucial in making sure that our team are all working towards the same vision – to be the biggest independent craft lager brewery in the UK. And we are well on our way to making our vision a reality!

We asked Matt a few questions to get to know him better…

When you were little, what did you want to be? A pilot!
What do you like doing when you’re not at the brewery? I enjoy watching lots of sport, including NFL and football (I’m a Forest fan, no judgment please!), playing golf and time with my family. And of course, spending time in the pub with a pint!

What is the best thing about your job?
There is so much to love at Freedom, but mainly the opportunity to work in an independent business with passionate and determined people who want to make such a big difference to the perception of lager in the UK.

Which is your favourite Freedom beer?
Freedom Craft Lager – it’s our bestseller, and for good reason! If you want a sessionable, refreshing and flavoursome lager, brewed with the care, attention and time it deserves, it’s the perfect choice.

What does the future hold for craft lager?
Lager still accounts for 4 out of every 5 pints sold in the UK and I believe authentic craft lager – which is lagered for a minimum of 4 weeks, naturally carbonated, unpasteurised, crisp and full bodied – will drive the new premium in the beer category and become the largest segment in the marketplace.

What’s next for Freedom Brewery?
Continued growth and investment to enable our ambition to become the largest independent craft lager brewer in the UK!

Stay tuned for our next meet the team blog…