SAWIA announce new Chief Executive

The South Australian Wine Industry Association (SAWIA) has announced the appointment of Inca Lee as Chief Executive commencing June 27, 2023.

The news comes after Brian Smedley, the current Chief Executive of SAWIA, announced his intention to retire earlier this year.

"I look forward to working with Inca in a very different capacity once she starts with SAWIA in June, as I complete a thorough hand over prior to my retirement in July 2023," said Smedley.

Lee brings a wealth of experience and is well known in the wine industry in her current role as Chief Executive of Vinehealth Australia.

Lee said she's passionate about the future of wine in South Australia, and SAWIA hopes the appointment will strengthen its ties with Vinehealth Australia and South Australia's 18 wine-growing regions as the industry continues to work through various economic challenges.

"I am delighted to have the opportunity to build on SAWIA's impressive advocacy and leadership position, and highly valued member services," said Lee. "I look forward to working alongside the SAWIA team, members, industry and government to advance the position of our great industry."

Kirsty Balnaves, President of SAWIA, said the vacancy drew significant interest, but Lee's experience in wine industry corporate roles and industry organisations made her the ideal candidate.

Balnaves paid tribute to Brian Smedley, crediting him with "established SAWIA as a respected peak body for the South Australian wine industry in his 15 years as Chief Executive and will leave an unprecedented legacy."

"I have very much enjoyed this chapter of my working life with SAWIA. It has been challenging and demanding, but overall, it has been most rewarding to represent the wine industry and to actively promote our state's unique offerings and provide valuable services to members," Smedley concluded.

Lee will take up the position in late July after a handover period with the outgoing Chief Executive is complete to ensure a smooth leadership transition.

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