Taylors Wines Managing Director Mitchell Taylor has stepped down after 25 years in the role, with John Freeman appointed as CEO.

Taylors Wines said: “This planned transition marks a key milestone for Taylors Wines, building on our history while looking ahead with clarity and ambition.

“John brings deep experience in leading family-owned wine businesses and strong alignment with our values. We’re pleased to welcome him as we continue crafting exceptional wines and growing globally.”

Freeman was Managing Director of New Zealand’s Delegat Group, home to the Oyster Bay brand. He is the first non-family member to lead Taylors Wines.

Freeman said: “There’s a strong foundation here and significant opportunity to grow. I’m looking forward to working closely with Mitchell, the Taylor family, and the wider team to build on this legacy and take Taylors Wines to new heights in both domestic and international markets.”

Freeman will lead the company from 21 July, with Taylor stepping into the role of Chairman.

Outgoing Chairman David Ansell said: “Mitchell’s deep industry knowledge and leadership have been instrumental in building Taylors Wines into a globally recognised brand. His ongoing involvement as Chair ensures we retain valuable insight and direction as the company enters its next chapter.”

Mitchell Taylor said: ““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.”

“I want to thank the board for its guidance and support over the past years, and I look forward to working with John and the executive team to accelerate our growth while staying true to the family values this business has been built on,” 

Taylor said he was also looking forward to spending more time with his family who he said have been “a constant source of love and support”.

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