Wine merchants, Samuel Smith & Son and Negociants Australia, have appointed Ty Menzies as the new executive director sales for Australia and New Zealand, effective December 2024. The announcement follows the imminent retirement of Paul Midolo, who will conclude a 29 year career with the company at the end of this year.
Menzies brings more than 23 years of experience with Samuel Smith & Son to the executive role, having held various key positions within the organisation, including general manager of independent retail groups since 2020.
Hill-Smith Family Estates CEO, Karl Martin, said Menzies sales expertise and well-established long-term relationships with the trade were key factors in his appointment.
“Ty has an impressive track record of driving growth and fostering strong customer relationships that, paired with a fresh perspective, will elevate our sales performance and operations across Australia and New Zealand,” said Martin
“He has been involved in many enhancements to the services provided by Samuel Smith & Sonand Negociants Australia over his time with the business, and he will play a critical role in driving the ongoing evolution of our go-to-market model.
“Most importantly, Ty’s customer-first mindset is naturally aligned with our business values and dedication to being the ultimate wine partner,” he said.
Menzies and Midolo will spend the next two months working closely with stakeholders before Menzies officially steps into the executive director sales ANZ role, on 23 December.
“I am excited for the opportunity to lead a group of great wine people in Samuel Smith & Son and Negociants Australia and New Zealand,” said Menzies.
“Between our two folios, we have more than 140 years of experience in representing family-owned wine brands in the Australian and New Zealand markets. Our focus will continue to be driving sustainable growth for our customers as we build on our promise to be their Ultimate Wine Partner.
“We will continue to lean into the key industry challenges, ensuring that we are a partner that drives growth for the wine category, continues to deliver relevant omnichannel experiences for our customers, and supports the industry and people wanting to work in wine through our Wine Education initiatives.”
“These priorities are largely a continuation of our vision for Samuel Smith &Son and Negociants Australia that began under Paul’s leadership. Paul has been a remarkable mentor, and his contributions over the past 29 years have laid a strong foundation for our business. I am confident our years of working in alignment towards becoming the ultimate wine partner will ensure a seamless transition,” he said.
