Mitchell Taylor and John Freeman. Image courtesy Taylors Wines

Taylors Wines has announced a key change in its leadership, with Mitchell Taylor to step back from his managing director role and into the position of chairman of the board.

As part of the family winery’s long-term succession plan, a new CEO was appointed—John Freeman—effective July 21st.

Taylors Wines’s current chairman David Ansell said the transition aligns with the company’s long-term strategy, and acknowledged Mitchell Taylor’s 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,” said Ansell.  “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.”

Taylor, who has been managing director of Taylors for 25 years, said the winery 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. 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,” Taylor said.

Taylor welcomed the appointment of John Freeman as CEO, acknowledging the breadth of his experience in the wine sector.

“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,” said Taylor. “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 was enthusiastic about the opportunity ahead with Taylors Wines.

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

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