Neil McGuigan resigns as CEO of Australian Vintage

Neil McGuigan, the inimitable chief executive of Australian Vintage, has resigned from his post at the company and is due to formally step down on 20 November.

The ebullient Neil McGuigan has resigned as CEO of Australian Vintage

After stepping down, McGuigan will work as technical advisor for Australian Vintage for ten weeks a year, consulting with the winemaking team and continuing to forge relationships with global clients.

Craig Garvin will take on the role of CEO on 20 November when McGuigan steps down, and will join the firm in September in the temporary role of CEO elect.

McGuigan joined the business in 2004 as general manager for Wine Supply, before being appointed CEO – a role he has held for nine years.

During his tenure, McGuigan’s unbridled passion for wine helped transformed Australian Vintage from a bulk supplier to a respected branded wine company.

Never shy of the limelight, McGuigan has been named International Winemaker of the Year a record four times at the International Wine and Spirits Competition.

He has also been voted White Winemaker of the Year four times at the International Wine Challenge.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as CEO, working with our talented team to create fantastic brands that are enjoyed around the globe.

“Being able to continue contributing to the company in the future, building on what my brother Brian started when he established the business in 1992, is very gratifying,” McGuigan said.

Richard Davis, chairman of Australian Vintage, added: “Neil has a great passion for the wine industry and has done a tremendous job as CEO of this company.

“During his time as CEO he has transformed it into a well-respected branded wine company with a clear focus on developing world-leading quality wine. We thank him for all his efforts in the role of CEO.”

The company’s new CEO, Craig Garvin, has worked as chief executive of dairy manufacturer Parmalat for the last nine years, having previously held senior positions at Star City Casino, Campbell Arnott’s and Lion Nathan.

“Craig has built strong, diverse teams with a focus on collaborative cultural creation. I have no doubt that he will continue the great work that Neil did in inspiring and leading the tremendous talent that we have at AV,” David said.

“I’m excited to build on Neil’s successful transformation of this company and to support the existing strategies into outcomes that generate long-term profitable growth for the company and our shareholders,” Garvin added.