The Wine Industry Suppliers Association (WISA) has announced the appointment of Liz Schoen as the new Executive Chair after its recent Annual General Meeting (AGM). The newly formulated role combines responsibilities of both Executive Officer and Chair.
Schoen, who has worked in the Australian wine industry for more than 20 years, said she was looking forward to helping develop growth plans for the association.
“WISA has a rich 20-year legacy of innovation and collaboration in the wine industry, and I look forward to building on that foundation,” she said.
“I am committed to advancing initiatives that strengthen the industry, promote sustainability, and unlock new growth opportunities alongside Vice Chair Eric Wilkes, the Management Committee, and our members.
“I am deeply honoured to step into this position and am grateful for Tim Stead’s leadership and passion during his tenure as Chair.”
WISA’s outgoing Chair, Stead said: “The 2023-24 year has been pivotal for WISA, marked by significant efforts to reorganize and realign the association toward a sustainable business model. Guided by WISA’s mission, I’m proud of the progress made and confident in the continued success under Liz Schoen’s leadership.”.
In outlining its new leadership structure WISA’s AGM also outlined the future goals of the new team.
Other new members on the executive team included Vice Chair Erik Labs from Affinity Labs, Treasurer Ron Van Buuren from Hydra Consulting, and Secretary Amy Bishop from DW Fox Tucker Lawyers.
Other re-elected and continuing members included Steven Scott from Pernod Ricard, Romina Meloni from Lallemand, and Adrian Fiocchini from Seguin Moreau, while Daniel Polson from Adama retired from the committee.
Speaking about the leadership changes, Schoen said she is confident that the team’s diversity will help WISA continue its support for the wine value chain.
“Our Management Committee reflects the breadth of expertise across WISA’s membership, spanning winemaking, packaging, sales, technology, research, engineering, and consulting. This representation positions us to better serve and support the entire wine value chain.”