After more than 40 years at the helm, Peter Barry will step down as Managing Director of Jim Barry Wines after announcing a succession plan that sees the third generation of the Barry family take the reins of the business.
Peter is set to hand over the joint Managing Director role to his sons, Tom and Sam, who will be supported by a strong leadership team that they have helped to shape.
Tom and Sam have been heavily involved in the running of the business for the past 15 years, serving as Director of Winemaking and Director of Sales, respectively.
The family business was founded by Jim and Nancy Barry in 1959 and remains one of the Clare Valley’s most respected family-owned wineries.
Peter, joined the business in 1977, becoming Managing Director in 1985 and has since been the driving force behind Jim Barry Wines’ national and international success.
His leadership has seen the business expand vineyard holdings, deepen its exports and build a reputation for both quality and innovation.
Reflecting on the change of leadership, Peter said he is proud to be handing over to the next generation of his family.
“We’ve never been in the business of standing still. My job, with the wise assistance of my wife Sue, was to build on what Mum and Dad started, and now it’s time for the next generation to do the same.
“Tom and Sam have worked incredibly hard over the past 15 years, learning all facets of the business, and I couldn’t be prouder and more pleased to pass the baton to them.”
The Barry sons will continue to lead their respective areas in winemaking and global sales, bringing their energy, strategic vision, and a deep understanding of the family’s vineyards to the forefront of the business.
Sam echoed his father’s sentiment: “It’s a huge honour to be entrusted with this legacy.
“We’ve always felt incredibly lucky to grow up in a family where wine and hard work were shared at the table. Dad and Mum have given us the space to forge our path, and we’re committed to continuing what they and our grandparents started.”
The new leadership will also be supported by sister Olivia Barry, who continues as Brand Ambassador, and Olivia Hoffmann-Barry (Tom’s wife), who leads the company’s marketing efforts as Director of Marketing.