AWRI seeks new managing director

Australia’s peak wine research body, the Australian Wine Research Institute, will be seeking a new managing director with the impending departure of Dr Sakkie Pretorius.

Pretorius will leave his current position as AWRI managing director to take up a new appointment as deputy vice chancellor and vice president of Research and Innovation at the University of South Australia on 1 December 2011.

AWRI chairman Peter Dawson made the announcement today.

“The AWRI is sad to lose Dr Pretorius but we recognise the opportunity he has been offered at this stage in his career,” Dawson said.

“The AWRI Board is grateful for Sakkie’s leadership and his passion for the Australian wine industry. Sakkie leaves the AWRI in a very strong position where it can continue to deliver outcomes for the benefit of grape and wine producers.”

Pretorius said he was proud of what had been achieved in the wine sector and was looking forward to embarking on a new career with the university.

“I have been given the opportunity to join the University of South Australia in a position where I hope to make a significant contribution as Deputy Vice Chancellor and Vice President: Research and Innovation,” Pretorius said.

Those interested in the the position of AWRI managing director will have until 19 August to submit their applications.

For more information, visit: www.awri.com.au or call: (08) 8303 6600.