Marlborough winegrowers head resigns

The chief executive officer of Marlborough Winegrowers Association has resigned.

Michelle Beckett's resignation was announced by association chairman Owen Glover yesterday afternoon, but Ms Beckett could not be contacted for comment.

In a statement Mr Glover said that having achieved successes for Marlborough Winegrowers both internationally and domestically, Ms Beckett now wanted to move on.

"We thank her for her commitment and achievements for Marlborough Winegrowers and wish her well in her future endeavours. "

Mr Glover said yesterday that another chief executive would eventually be appointed.

"We want to carry on the good work that Michelle has been doing in advancing the industry and advancing brand Marlborough. "

Ms Beckett, the former Christchurch City Council events team manager, made several high-profile changes to wine promotion in the region, including axing the annual Cook Strait sauvignon blanc yacht race and switching the Wellington promotion to an exclusive function at the Beehive for wine industry figures, politicians, and other celebrities.

She also helmed Marlborough Winegrowers' takeover of the Marlborough wine festival, and promoted "decisive" regional marketing overseas.

Ms Beckett developed a business plan -- The Way Forward -- to drive the generic wine marketing programme.

- NZPA