BASF Australia and New Zealand’s new leader takes centre court
![David Hawkins David Hawkins](/api/imaging/focalarea/16x9/210x/dam/jcr%3A6d6102be-d315-3a52-a0ba-e03f3f54c055/david-hawkins.jpg)
Back in April, we announced the appointment of David Hawkins as the new Chairman and Managing Director for BASF Australia and New Zealand. And today, 1 July 2016, marks David’s first official day in the new role.
He brings a wealth of professional experience to the position – including nearly 25 years in manufacturing management, strategy, business re-engineering, systems design and implementation. He also holds bachelor degrees in Chemical Engineering and Science (Applied Mathematics) and a Master of Business Administration.
David said he’s really looking forward to taking on the new responsibility. “While there will be some challenges, it’s a very exciting time for many parts of our business.” BASF returned to the Australian agriculture market in 2014 after ten years. In January 2016, BASF signed a ten-year partnership with leading ANZ bodyshop network, AMA Group.
But there’s another job that David takes very seriously – that of a family man. He is a supportive husband and proud father to three young girls, something he says keeps him ‘very busy’. David, who stands at around 6 feet and 6 inches tall, was a keen basketballer and has recently turned his hand to coaching.
“When I’m not at work, you’ll likely find me coaching my daughters’ basketball team. It’s a good learning experience for me as I can be a bit competitive at times. And in Saturday morning under-10 girls basketball, it pays to be…well, grounded.”
He also has an enduring love for his AFL team – the Carlton Football Club.
In 2015, BASF posted sales of about €428 million in ANZ, serving key industries in the agriculture, coatings, construction, manufacturing and mining sectors. To find out more about BASF ANZ, visit www.basf.com.au