New Zealand Winegrowers (NZW) is pleased to announce that Anishka Jelicich has commenced in her role as Chief Executive Officer. She joins NZW following a successful international career spanning more than two decades across New Zealand, the United Kingdom and Europe. Chair of New Zealand Winegrowers, Fabian Yukich, said the Board is delighted to welcome Anishka into the role.
“We are very pleased to have Anishka join us as CEO. She brings a deep understanding of the New Zealand wine industry, combined with extensive global experience and strong leadership capability. Her strategic perspective and ability to build alignment across stakeholders will be invaluable as we navigate both the opportunities and challenges ahead for our sector.”
Anishka’s appointment comes at an important time for the New Zealand wine industry. With continued global demand for premium New Zealand wines, the sector remains well positioned for long-term growth, while also responding to a range of global and domestic pressures facing growers and winemakers.
Reflecting on her new role, Anishka says, “Having spent much of my career working internationally in the global wine and drinks sector, I've had the privilege of seeing New Zealand wine through the eyes of the world. Time and again I've seen the extraordinary respect our wines, our people and our industry command globally. That perspective has only deepened a connection that is both personal and professional, making it a real privilege to join an organisation that has helped shape one of New Zealand's great success stories through the leadership of Philip Gregan (recently retired CEO), the NZW Board, the NZW team, our members and those who have contributed over many years.”
Looking ahead, she says, “Today, New Zealand wine is the country's eighth largest export, generating approximately NZ$2.1 billion annually, with our distinctive, refreshing and sustainable wines enjoyed by consumers in more than 100 markets around the world. My first priority is therefore to listen, learn and spend time with people across the industry, understanding what matters most before we write the next chapter together.”
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New Zealand Winegrowers' images can be found here.
For further information, contact:
Chrissy Powlesland
Communications Manager, New Zealand Winegrowers
+64 21 331 398
chrissy.powlesland@nzwine.com
Editor’s notes
NEW ZEALAND WINEGROWERS
New Zealand Winegrowers Inc. is the national organisation for the country's grape and wine sector, with over 600 grower members and 700 winery members. nzwine.com
NEW ZEALAND WINE
New Zealand wine is exported to more than 100 countries
New Zealand produces just over 1% of the world’s wine
New Zealand wine is New Zealand’s seventh-largest export good
New Zealand wine exports for 2025 were $2.10 billion
View reports and statistics here