Applications are now open for the 2025 Wine Industry Mentor Program, an initiative designed to boost the personal and professional development of the Australian wine industry’s future leaders.
First launched in 2019, the Wine Industry Mentor Program welcomes applications from all aspects of the Australian wine industry, including viticulture, winemaking, logistics, marketing, sales and media.
From June to November this year, the mentoring program will provide access to a world-class online mentoring platform and industry-specific information catered to the needs of each participant, including mentor meetings and professional development sessions.
For the first time, in 2025 the program is inviting a small group of applicants to take on the role of mentor/mentee. Designed to support mid-career applicants and/or previous successful mentees, the position would allow participants to act as a mentor for those at the beginning of their careers while also becoming a mentee to a more senior mentor as they further their own development.
For 2025, the Wine Industry Mentor Program is also inviting a small number of participants to match with international mentors from the USA, UK and New Zealand in a first for the initiative.
More than 40 well-known wine industry experts have already volunteered to take part in the upcoming six-month mentoring program, including Andrew Margan (Margan Wines), Samantha Connew (Stargazer Wines), Gill Gordon-Smith (wine educator) and Marianne Duluk (Department of State Development).
Since its launch, the program has supported more than 260 mentees, providing one-on-one mentoring from wine industry leaders as they progress their careers, expand their networks, develop their confidence and take on leadership pathways.
Tim Blair, a participant of the 2024 Wine Industry Mentor Program, reflected on his experience: “The mentorship program has been a transformative experience, enabling me to connect with an incredible mentor who provided invaluable guidance and support, significantly influencing my career and perspective within the industry.”
Commenting on her own experience, 2024 Mentor, Fiona Findlay of Voyager Estate, added: “It was a pleasure to work with my mentee, who was very responsive to our sessions. I also gained valuable experience and enjoyment from the process.”
The Wine Industry Mentor Program is managed by the Wine Communicators of Australia and supported by The University of Adelaide, Wine Australia, the Australian Society of Viticulture and Oenology and the Wine Industry Suppliers Association.
Mentee and mentor applications are now open here.