In Tribute: Simon Hammond, Honorary Doctor of Business.

It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to a visionary leader, Mr. Simon Hammond, the esteemed founder and executive chair of creative agency 50 Crates, and the force behind Hammond Thinking. Simon's journey through the landscape of Australian business was marked by a profound commitment to reshaping organisations and rekindling emotional connections between businesses and their customers.

With a career spanning several decades, Simon Hammond emerged as a luminary in the realms of marketing, branding, and consumer behaviour. His co-founding of The Be Counsel, his chairmanship at The Be Brands initiative, and his influential role at Bastion Brands underscore his indelible impact on the industry.

At the heart of Simon's philosophy was the belief that businesses must embody certain qualities to forge unprecedented emotional connections. Through his Be Brands initiative, he pioneered a B2B philosophy that has enabled businesses to better understand what they must BE to create profound emotional connections with their people and customers.

Simon Hammond, Swinburne lecturer and founder of 50 Crates, with CEO and Swinburne Alumni Will Slater.

Simon Hammond's contributions extend far beyond the boardroom. As a board member of the Open Family Foundation, Chair of the YMCA National Belief Council, and a board member of EBOS Brand and API Belief Council, he demonstrated a commitment to societal well-being that mirrored his dedication to business success.

Swinburne University recognised Simon Hammond's exceptional contributions by conferring upon him the Honorary Doctor of Business. His engagement with Swinburne as an Adjunct Professor since November 2020 showcased his passion for education and the development of the next generation of business leaders.

Simon's unique approach to presentations, exemplified by the innovative Lectern Rock, challenged audiences to rethink how business connects with humanity. A fusion of theatre, rock concert, and business insight briefing, Lectern Rock became a hallmark of his commitment to driving creative change.

As we reflect on Simon Hammond's legacy, let us remember the man who not only reshaped organisations but also touched the hearts and minds of those he worked with. His ongoing engagement with Swinburne, including contributions to postgraduate units and work-integrated learning, ensures that his influence will endure, shaping the future of business education.

In conferring the Honorary Doctorate, Swinburne University acknowledges and celebrates the profound impact of Simon Hammond, a true visionary, and we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the extended community he touched with his wisdom and warmth.

Browse related courses

Hear more from our alumni