WINE Grape Growers Australia has unveiled Mellor Olsson partner Jo Andrew as its new independent chairperson.
The decision was made to appoint an independent chairperson following the retirement of long-standing chairman and South Australian representative Vic Patrick.
“We felt we needed someone with a fresh perspective and experience in leading an organisation through a period of significant challenge and change, where we have to set the framework for the industry for the next 20 years,” WGGA selection panel chairman Justin Jarrett said.
“We were fortunate to receive a number of excellent applications, but Ms Andrew stood out because of her strong corporate governance skills, understanding of political processes and extensive experience with stakeholder engagement and addressing regional issues. She also grew up on a grape and citrus property in the Riverland, so she has excellent insights into the realities facing grapegrowers.”
Ms Andrew is a Capital Partner with law firm Mellor Olsson, and has expertise in governance and law, strategy and business development. She is the chairman of the Brain Injury Network of SA, non-executive director of the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges NRM Board and Crime Stoppers SA and is a former chairperson of the Julia Farr Association and Julia Farr Housing Association.
“This is a fascinating and complex industry facing a number of significant challenges," Ms Andrew said. "I am looking forward to playing a role in setting the future direction for the organisation that will contribute to an improved outlook for winegrape growers.”
