By Amy Looker
The Australian wine industry has experienced a flurry of activity in staffing changes in recent weeks, with four leading wine companies appointing new staff to key positions.
Constellation Wines Australia (CWA) has named Anita Poddar as its new Group Public Relations Manager, following the departure of Sheralee Davies to take on the role of Chief Executive of Wine Industry Tasmania.
Poddar joins CWA with extensive PR and journalism experience across a number of primary industries, including a position with the Grape and Wine Research and Development Corporation. Poddar will lead a team of four, working across 25 wine brands, as well as managing all corporate communications.
Griffith-based Casella Wines has appointed Sally Baker to the position of Brand Manager, responsible for the winery’s international portfolio in key overseas markets. Baker joins Casella with over seven years experience in the beverage industry, having previously worked for Bacardi Lion and nudie juice.
Garrick Harvison has finished up at Yarraman Estate to take on the role of Export Business Development Manager for McWilliam’s Wines. Harvison was named Young Exporter of the Year at the 2009 NSW Premier’s Export Awards and brings over 10 years experience to his new role.
Damian Monahan has joined Blue Pyrenees in the role of sales manager – New South Wales and Queensland. Damian arrives at Blue Pyrenees with over 15 years experience in sales representative and managerial roles for liquor industry companies such as Schweppes/Cadbury, Taylors Wines, Ballast Stone Estate Wines and Montana Wines.