One of the things I admire most about the people of B.C.’s wine industry is that, when called upon, they step up to lead together. That spirit of collaborative leadership was front and centre this fall during Wine Growers BC (WGBC) elections.
We’re pleased to welcome a mix of new and returning directors, reflecting a balance of small, medium and large winery voices. Together, they reflect the diversity, creativity and resilience that define the culture and community of B.C. wine.
These nine individuals are more than just your elected representatives — they are stewards of a shared vision for our future.
They are passionate, experienced, highly engaged and deeply committed to the enduring potential of B.C. wine. Many also serve on boards and committees of other organizations that help drive our sector forward.
Together, I know we have the right team in place to guide our industry through immediate challenges and long-term opportunities.
Joining WGBC’s board for the first time is Michael Bartier (Bartier Bros. Vineyard and Winery). We also welcome back Mark Sheridan (Hester Creek Estate Winery) and Samantha Collins (Mission Hill Family Estate).
They’ll work alongside continuing directors Vincent Ong (Andrew Peller Ltd.), Josh Stewart (Arterra Wines Canada), Angela Lyons (Quails’ Gate Family Estate), Paul Sawler (Dirty Laundry Winery), Lauren Skinner Buksevics (Painted Rock Estate Winery), and Mike Dowell (Liber Farm and Winery).
On behalf of WGBC and the entire board, I want to express heartfelt thanks to outgoing director Adam Woodward (Privato Vineyard & Winery) for his years serving the industry with us. His leadership and perspective have helped shape many of our most important conversations in recent years.
One of the board’s primary jobs is to ensure WGBC’s strategies respond to the everyday challenges wineries are facing on the ground. In December, the board will gather for an annual strategic planning session to reflect, recalibrate and align our path forward.
This year, that work will be shaped by direct feedback from members received through recent town halls, dozens of winery visits, a member survey and the most up-to-date market insights available.
Through it all, we’ll focus on what matters most: carrying your voice to government, advocating for industry priorities, strengthening market share, enhancing wine tourism and protecting the integrity of 100 percent B.C. wine.
If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s that we’re strongest when we stand united. We’ve weathered our share of challenges — climate changes, a polar vortex, shifting market conditions, evolving consumer trends and now a BCGEU strike. But through it all, collaboration has carried us forward. And because of that, there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic about what comes next.
I look forward to working with this dedicated group of directors — and with all of you — as we continue telling the story of 100 percent B.C. wine with Canada and the world.