MEDIA RELEASE: 29 April 2025
Wine Communicators of Australia Welcomes New Executive Officer, Ruth Harris
Wine Communicators of Australia (WCA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ruth Harris as its new Executive Officer, commencing 1 May 2025.
This appointment follows an extensive and highly competitive recruitment process, conducted by the WCA Board Sub Committee, which attracted candidates of exceptional calibre from across the wine and communications sectors. The Board extends its sincere appreciation to all applicants who expressed interest in the role and recognises the impressive talent within the industry.
Ruth brings over 25 years of experience in marketing and communications across a range of wine businesses, large and small, as well as regional associations and wine industry member-based organisations. She is a skilled communicator, strategic thinker, and passionate advocate for Australian wine, making her a natural fit for WCA during a period of significant challenge and change for the wine community.
WCA National Chair, Lynda Schenk, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Ruth Harris to help lead the charge for WCA. Her breadth of experience, collaborative leadership style, and deep understanding of stakeholder engagement will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen WCA’s impact across the industry. These are testing times for the Australian wine sector, and it is in these moments that organisations like WCA are most critical, providing a platform for connection, professional development, and shared knowledge. We believe Ruth will play a key role in championing these WCA values.”
Ruth joins WCA at a pivotal time, with the wine industry navigating ongoing market pressures, oversupply challenges, and shifting global trade dynamics. Her role will focus on driving member value, enhancing WCA’s educational and networking offerings, and continuing to support wine industry professionals at every stage of their career.
Reflecting on her appointment, Ruth Harris said:
“I am honoured to step into the role of Executive Officer at such a vital time for the Australian wine community. WCA plays an incredibly important role in bringing people together to communicate, learn and grow. I am excited by the opportunity to work with the progressive Board, engaged members, supportive partners, and the broader industry to continue building a strong, vibrant and connected network.”
Ruth joins the existing WCA team including Alex Burgener, WCA Events, Marketing & Membership Manager, and will work closely with the National Board to ensure the organisation remains responsive to the evolving needs of members and the industry at large.
Image: Ruth Harris
For further information please contact:
Alex Burgener, WCA Events, Marketing & Membership Manager
P: +61 417 746 126 E: wca@winecommunicators.com.au
ABOUT WCA
Wine Communicators of Australia was established as a national not-for-profit company in December 2010, growing out of the well-respected Wine Press Clubs of NSW, Victoria and South Australia. It aims to be Australia’s pre-eminent organisation connecting business professionals working with wine. WCA’s annual program includes networking events, educational webinars, two industry growth conferences and its prestigious lunches in association with three major capital city wine shows – Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide. It also runs the annual Wine Communicator Awards, Wine Industry Mentor Program and Legend of the Vine Awards.