Ruth Harris appointed executive officer of Wine Communicators of Australia
Commencing 1 May 2025, Ruth Harris has been appointed as the new executive officer of Wine Communicators of Australia (WCA), bringing over 25 years of extensive experience from across both small and large wine enterprises in the sector. Her appointment follows a thorough recruitment process led by a sub-committee of the WCA board, underscoring the organisation’s commitment to strategic leadership during a pivotal time for the Australian wine industry.
Lynda Schenk, the national chair of WCA, emphasised Harris’s comprehensive expertise in strategy and communications, paired with a genuine passion for Australian wine, as key factors in her selection. Speaking to Food Magazine, Schenk stated, “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.”
The appointment comes at a critical juncture for the Australian wine sector, which is currently grappling with a range of challenges. Ongoing market pressures, issues related to oversupply, and shifting dynamics in global trade are placing considerable strain on industry participants. Against this backdrop, WCA’s role as a facilitator of connection, professional development, and knowledge sharing among wine communicators and professionals is increasingly vital.
Schenk highlighted WCA’s commitment to supporting the industry during these testing times, explaining, “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.”
In her new role, Harris will prioritise delivering enhanced value to WCA members, elevating the association’s educational and networking programs, and supporting wine industry professionals to adapt and thrive amidst market challenges. Reflecting on her appointment, Harris shared with Food Magazine, “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.”
She expressed enthusiasm about collaborating closely with the WCA board, its engaged members, partners, and the industry at large, aiming to build a “strong, vibrant and connected network.” Harris’s leadership is expected to steer WCA in a responsive manner that aligns with the evolving needs and opportunities within the Australian wine sector.
The Wine Communicators of Australia is a pivotal association dedicated to supporting those engaged in the communication and promotion of Australian wine, providing professional development, networking, and resources. Harris’s extensive background in strategy and communication, combined with her commitment to the industry, is anticipated to reinforce WCA’s role as a central organisation fostering industry resilience and innovation.
This leadership transition signals a proactive approach by WCA to meet the demands of a changing market environment and highlights the organisation’s dedication to serving its members through expert guidance and collaborative support.