Anishka Jelicich new CEO at NZ Winegrowers

New Zealand Winegrowers has announced the appointment of Anishka Jelicich as its next Chief Executive Officer, commencing at the end of July 2026.

Jelicich will exit her current Paris-based role with Pernod Ricard as Global Director Responsible Marketing & Sales, and return home to New Zealand to be based at the NZW head office in Auckland.

Anishka Jelicich has more than two decades of leadership experience in the global wine industry across New Zealand, the United Kingdom and Europe.

Anishka Jelicich has been appointed the new CEO of NZ Winegrowers.

Chair Fabian Yukich said the Board was seeking a leader who understood the wine industry, could bring a global perspective, strong stakeholder capability, and strategic clarity to the role.

“Anishka was a stand-out candidate for us with her deep understanding of the New Zealand wine industry, combined with extensive global knowledge and experience. She offers strong credentials in navigating complex international environments, a deep understanding of policy and trade, and a proven ability to build alignment across diverse stakeholders.

“We are delighted with her deep connection to New Zealand and her passion for our world-renowned wines. She has a clear commitment to the future, with the strategic foresight needed to lead our organisation into its next chapter.”

NZ Winegrowers says that the announcement comes at an important moment for New Zealand’s wine industry as it navigates a period of heightened global uncertainty, with a range of serious pressures currently facing growers and winemakers. Against this backdrop, it says the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer “brings an opportunity for a fresh perspective, renewed focus, and a clear, united vision for the industry”.

Anishka Jelicich says she is honoured to be appointed to the role. “The New Zealand wine industry is globally respected, and it plays an important role in our nation’s economy and communities. I am looking forward to serving and supporting the interests of our members and working closely with the Board and the NZW team to support the industry through its current challenges, opportunities, and positioning it strongly for the future.”

The Board also acknowledged the outstanding contribution of departing CEO Philip Gregan, who will retire at the end of June after 43 years of service to the organisation.

“Philip’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the modern New Zealand wine industry, while establishing NZW as one of the most respected wine industry organisations in the world”, said Fabian Yukich.