CEO back in charge of the winery that sacked him

Craig Garvin, sacked as CEO by Australian Vintage (AVG) in May, is back in the position.

“The new Board of Australian Vintage is pleased to welcome Craig back to AVG,” chairman James Williamson says.

“His appointment follows an external search that considered a number of exceptional candidates.

“After a thorough review of the circumstances and processes surrounding his departure from Australian Vintage in May, the Board felt it was important for Craig to be involved in the search process.

“Craig’s track record at AVG, his leadership style and deep understanding of our industry and our partners make him the right person to lead the company.”

AVG sacked Mr Garvin in May over what it called “a lack of judgement”.

Non-executive director Peter Perrin took over as acting CEO.

AVG said in a statement back then: “After careful consideration and discussion between Mr Garvin and the Board, the Board has terminated Mr Garvin’s employment for engaging in conduct that, in its view, displayed a lack of judgement and was inconsistent with the values of the company and the high standards expected of its chief executive officer,” AVG said in a statement.

Mr Garvin told The Australian that he would be seeking legal advice.

Now – just five months later – he has been reinstalled as CEO.

“He is a respected and well-liked leader who successfully led the change at AVG in a challenging environment,” Mr Williamson says.

“This included the development and implementation of the company’s five-year strategic plan, which transformed the company into a consumer-led business with a commitment to innovation.

“His appointment, after a difficult period for the company, highlights the Board’s laser-like focus on restoring shareholder value.

“Craig’s appointment positions us to strengthen the company and take advantage of opportunities in Australia and international markets.”

Mr Garvin was CEO of Australian Vintage from November 2019 to May 2024 before he was sacked.

Prior to that, he was CEO of leading dairy manufacturer Parmalat for nearly a decade.

Chair of the Board’s People, Remuneration and Culture Committee, Margaret Zabel, said: “Craig has demonstrated his ability to create an effective high-performing team, build a strong culture, and develop enduring relationships with customers and other stakeholders.

“He is the right person to take Australian Vintage forward, and we are looking forward to working with him to create value for our shareholders to deliver great wine brands to our customers.”