Leadership transition for Taylors Wines

Written by May 12, 2025The Shout NZ

Australia’s Taylors Wines has announced a key leadership transition as part of the family winery’s long-term succession plan.

After 25 years as Managing Director, Mitchell Taylor will become Chairman of the Board, with a new CEO appointed effective July 21st.

Taylors Wines Chairman David Ansell said the transition aligns with the company’s long-term strategy.

He also acknowledged Mitchell’s significant contribution to the company and the Australian wine industry.

“Mitchell’s knowledge and experience within Taylors and the Australian wine industry is second to none. In his new role as Chair, he will provide the continuity and insight we need to unlock the next chapter of this Australian success story,” says Ansell.

Mitchell Taylor said Taylors Wines was ideally positioned to grow its business in Australia and across the world.

“I am proud of our achievements over many years, particularly the premiumisation of our family brand with the St Andrews and Jaraman ranges, as well as our pinnacle wines, The Visionary, The Pioneer, and The Legacy,” he says.

“It has been our ambition to elevate the quality of Taylors Wines with our skilled viticulture and winemaking teams, resulting in major awards globally and making us the third largest and number one family brand by value in the Australian wine market.

“It has been a privilege and honour to lead our family business through great change and growth over many years. I will shift my focus and energy to family business ownership, overall strategy, vision and succession planning for Taylors, while mentoring the next generation of leaders within the business.”

As part of the transition, Taylors Wines also announced the appointment of John Freeman as the company’s new CEO.

“John brings years of experience in wine industry leadership and working in family-owned wine businesses, having recently spent 16 years with Delegat Group in New Zealand and Australia,” says Mitchell.

“He has a strong track record in delivering growth, knows what it takes to compete successfully and consistently, and is well-positioned to drive Taylors Wines’ next stage of development.”

Freeman says he is excited about the opportunity to join Taylors Wines.

“There is enormous potential to build on this legacy, expand our market presence, and accelerate our growth agenda.

“I look forward to working closely with Mitchell, the Taylor family, the Board, and the entire team to continue delivering exceptional wines to consumers around the world”. 

How to catch up with The Shout NZ

Online, updated daily with its own unique content and breaking news.
Our weekly newsletter – free to your inbox! Subscribe here.
We are also on Facebook and Instagram!

Read Full Post

You may also like...