The Australian Society of Viticulture and Oenology (ASVO) has appointed Emily White as the organisation’s new executive director, following an extended search for the ideal candidate. She will take over the role from Chris Waters after a two month collaborative transition period.
A member-based organisation founded to serve the interests of practising winemakers and viticulturists by encouraging the exchange of technical information, the ASVO mission is to advance technical knowledge and promote excellence in the industry.
ASVO president, Samantha Scarratt, said the organisation is delighted to have found such a strong executive director candidate moving forward.
“Emily’s strength in marketing and business development will assist the ASVO to grow its membership base and profile and will be an excellent complement to the extensive viticulture and winemaking – and recently added editorial and financial - expertise of the ASVO Board of Directors,” said Scarratt.
“Emily brings a different skillset to the ASVO, which will help lead the organisation into the future.”
White joins ASVO with substantial experience in the wine and agribusiness industries and a strong background in marketing and business development. Her experience includes leading teams across broader agribusiness environments and various Australian wine businesses, including Taltarni/Clover Hill Vineyards, Treasury Wine Estates, and Accolade Wines, where she has consistently driven brand growth, market expansion, and commercial partnerships in highly competitive markets.
“I'm excited to be starting as ASVO’s executive director and honoured to lead an organisation with longstanding equity in the Australian wine community,” said White.
“ASVO plays a vital role in bringing together technical leadership and industry – from publishing research that drives practical improvements, to creating opportunities for members to connect and share knowledge across oenology and viticulture.
“I am particularly committed to strengthening partnerships and collaborative platforms that deliver real value to our members, while building meaningful connections across research, industry, and education. My focus will be on increasing membership value and leveraging ASVO’s trusted position to benefit both current and future generations shaping Australia’s wine sector,” she said.
