The Australian Distillers Association (ADA) and Spirits Victoria Association (SVA) have appointed Marianne Duluk as the new Victorian spirits industry development officer and SVA executive officer, commencing 4 May. She takes over from Sebastian Costello, who has been in the position since September 2023.
Duluk joins the role with close to 20 years’ experience across global marketing, brand and export leadership in the premium beverage sector, including more than a decade leading international marketing and export initiatives.
As industry development officer, she will lead the delivery of the Vic Distilled Program, working with SVA and the ADA, and alongside the Victorian government, to champion local distillers. Duluk will also oversee the delivery of an existing grants program, training, and export initiatives whilst building strong relationships with distillers, government agencies, and regional bodies across the state.
SVA president, James Omond, said Duluk brings exactly the blend of skills the sector needs right now – from managing multi-million dollar government-funded programs and leading export capability initiatives across 17 international markets, to building the strong relationships with producers, associations and government agencies that will be critical to delivering the Vic Distilled Program.
“This appointment would not have been possible without the generous support of the Victorian government through Agriculture Victoria,” said Omond.
“Their investment in the Vic Distilled Program reflects a genuine commitment to strengthening Victoria’s distilling sector, supporting regional producers, and building the capability our industry needs to thrive in both domestic and international markets.”
Currently leading global industry growth programs for South Australia’s wine, food and beverage sector within the South Australian government, Duluk’s portfolio includes leadership of the Spirits Expansion Program, as well as the $3.9 million Global Wine Growth Program and the Premium Food and Beverage Export Growth Program.
“It’s a privilege to join such a passionate and innovative community, and I’m thrilled to be on board,” said Duluk.
“I’m looking forward to working closely with local producers and helping unlock growth opportunities so their businesses can thrive.”
