The former executive director of Pernod Ricard Winemakers has been appointed as the new Chair of industry body Australian Grape & Wine.
The appointment, which comes into effect from today Friday 14 November, will see Helen Strachan succeed John Hart OAM who has led the organisation since 2021.
Strachan brings with her almost two decades of wine industry experience, alongside a lifelong connection to agriculture, having grown up on a stone fruit and grape property in Renmark, South Australia.
In her most recent role as Legal, Public Affairs, Communications and S&R Director at Pernod Ricard Winemakers she was part of the executive management team for the global wine business up until the merger with Accolade Wines to form Vinarchy in May this year.
She has been part of the Australian Grape & Wine board since November 2016 and has appeared on a number of other industry association boards, including as the current Chair of the National Wine Foundation, two years as a Committee Member of the Drinks Association’s SA Chapter Women in in Drinks, and four years on the DrinkWise Board.
“Helen has devoted a significant part of her career to advancing the interests of the Australian grape and wine sector, both through her professional role and her service on numerous boards and committees,” said Australian Grape & Wine CEO Lee McLean. “She is highly respected across industry and government, and we are excited to work with her as Chair at this critical juncture for our sector.”
Strachan said she was honoured to be taking on the role: “The Australian grape and wine community is incredibly important to me – it’s not only my professional focus, but also part of my upbringing and identity. I am passionate about supporting the sector to thrive, and I look forward to working with the Board and the team at Australian Grape & Wine to advocate strongly on the issues that matter most to growers, winemakers and regions across the country. To the broader wine sector, I encourage you to engage with AGW, and know that Lee, the team and I are always available to hear your views and work together on the issues that matter.”
John Hart is also currently the Executive Director of the Australian Chamber of Tourism and was previously the business lead for the Restaurant & Catering Society for more than 20 years up to 2020.
“It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of Australian Grape & Wine over the past four years,” John Hart said. “I am delighted to be handing over to Helen, whose deep industry knowledge, governance expertise and passion for the wine sector will be invaluable as the organisation navigates the challenges and opportunities ahead.”
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