Bickford's Group of Companies
Chris Illman has a diverse work experience spanning various industries. Chris currently serves as a Member of the Board of Directors for PREPD Hydration, a position they have held since May 2023. Prior to this, they were also a Member of the Board of Directors for Harness Racing South Australia from October 2022.
From 2013 to present, Chris worked at Bickford's Group of Companies, starting as the Group Marketing Manager before becoming the Head of Group Sales, Marketing, and Hospitality in September 2021. Chris led a team of Brand Marketers and Creative Designers, overseeing all marketing activities for the company's brands.
Before that, Chris worked at VOK Beverages as a Senior Brand Manager from April 2006 to April 2013. Chris also held the role of Senior Brand Manager for Victorian Brands at Treasury Wine Estates from January 2006 to March 2006.
In 2005, Chris was the Brand Development Manager for Barossa Valley Estate, a winery jointly owned by local growers and the Hardy Wine Company. Prior to that, they worked at Southcorp Wines Pty Ltd as a Senior Brand Manager for Rosemount Estate & Regional Brands.
Chris started their career at Kraft Foods Group in 1993, where they held various roles including Senior Brand Manager for Confectionery and Cheese Snacking. Chris also served as a Trade Strategy Manager and held account management positions.
Overall, Chris Illman has extensive experience in sales, marketing, and brand management roles across multiple industries.
Chris Illman has a Postgraduate Diploma in Management (Marketing), which they obtained from Melbourne Business School in 2003-2004. Chris also has a Bachelor of Economics from Flinders University, which they achieved between 2001 and 2004. Additionally, they completed their matriculation at Westminster School from 1982 to 1990.
Bickford's Group of Companies
The Bickford's Group is an independently owned collection of companies based in Adelaide, South Australia. From humble beginnings back in 1839, we now have a footprint in over 39 countries. The team at Bickford's are proud to offer the highest quality beverage products to consumers, bringing them both tradition and cutting edge innovations. Everyone at the Bickford's Group of companies strive to deliver upon the corporate values of integrity, empowerment, collaboration, pride and passion. The Bickford’s Australia business unit focuses on the non-alcohol portfolio and includes Australia’s number 1 premium cordial range, originally produced in 1874 and a treasured part of Australia’s heritage. Known for our prize winning cordials and traditional style sodas, the range has grown to include a unique portfolio of contemporary and traditional products including premium juices, soft drinks and syrups. The values of quality and integrity that formed the original Bickford’s vision remain true today and exist in every Bickford’s product. Vok is our alcohol beverage unit. It has consistently been one of Australia’s fastest growing beverage companies. We own and manufacture a highly awarded portfolio of brands across beer, wine, cider, spirits and ready to drink products. Vok has built a reputation for building brands and returning brands to growth. We’re proud to offer the highest quality products to our consumers, bringing them both tradition and cutting edge innovation. As an entrepreneurial company we are not afraid to lead our competitors with innovative category solutions that create power brands and a legacy for future generations.