By Andrew Starke
Wine Australia has appointed James Gosper as its new general manager, market development, a role responsible for the strategic marketing and promotion of Australian wine to both domestic and international markets.
The appointment is effective from June 1 and serves to replace Paul Henry, who resigned from the role in October last year.
Gosper is currently Wine Australia’s regional director of North America but has extensive experience in the local market having worked for a number of major wine companies.
He will remain in the US to assist with recruitment and handover for his existing role, before moving to Australia later in the year.
Wine Australia CEO Andrew Cheesman said there was enormous interest in the role and an outstanding list of candidates had applied.
“We are very pleased to announce James as the successful candidate. He has an exceptional understanding of the Australian wine landscape and also of the Wine Australia business,” he said.
“James’ vast experience in the wine sector, particularly in terms of building relationships and international market development was a key factor in the final decision.”
Gosper has worked in a variety of wine industry roles over the past 20 years, including retail, winemaking, marketing, sales and brand management positions at Domaine Chandon/Green Point, Cloudy Bay, Piper’s Brook and Lindemans.
He spent 12 years at Green Point – Domaine Chandon Australia, in the Yarra Valley, Victoria with the final fours years as chief winemaker/winery manager, and a member of the executive team.
Following this role, he moved to the US to take up the position of brand director in New York with Moet Hennessy USA where he was responsible for the marketing and sales nationally for Green Point, Cape Mentelle and Cloudy Bay wines.
In 2009 Gosper accepted the role of regional director for North America for Wine Australia.
“James has made a significant contribution over an extended period to the Australian wine sector both in Australia and overseas and we are looking forward to welcoming him back home to continue with us,” said Cheesman.
The general manager, market development role will be based in Sydney, working closely with allied agencies including AusTrade and Tourism Australia.