New Zealand Winegrowers (NZW) has announced the appointment of Anishka Jelicich as its next Chief Executive Officer, commencing at the end of July 2026.
Jelicich takes over from departing CEO Philip Gregan, who will retire at the end of June after 43 years of service to the organisation.
Jelicich be exiting her Paris-based role with Pernod Ricard as Global Director Responsible Marketing & Sales, and will be returning home to New Zealand to be based at the NZW head office in Auckland.
The announcement comes at an important moment for New Zealand’s wine industry, with the sector navigating a period of heightened global uncertainty, and growers and winemakers facing a range of serious pressures.
Chair Fabian Yukich says the Board was seeking a leader who understood the wine industry, could bring a global perspective, strong stakeholder capability, and strategic clarity to the role.
“Anishka was a stand-out candidate for us with her deep understanding of the New Zealand wine industry, combined with extensive global knowledge and experience,” he says.
“She offers strong credentials in navigating complex international environments, a deep understanding of policy and trade, and a proven ability to build alignment across diverse stakeholders.
Philip Gregan
“We are delighted with her deep connection to New Zealand and her passion for our world-renowned wines. She has a clear commitment to the future, with the strategic foresight needed to lead our organisation into its next chapter.”
The Board also acknowledged the outstanding contribution of departing CEO Philip Gregan.
“Philip’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the modern New Zealand wine industry, while establishing NZW as one of the most respected wine industry organisations in the world”, says Yukich.
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