Patritti is set to undergo a transformation with two key leadership appointments from outside the family, a first in the company’s 94-year history. The board, comprised of second-generation family members Peter, John, Geoffrey and Ines Patritti, has enacted its succession plan and renewed its vision for the future, appointing Justin Tiller to lead the organisation as General Manager and Angelo Piantadosi as independent Chairperson.
“Working autonomously from the family, Justin’s role will be pivotal to the company, driving its evolution, structure and operation in line with the board’s vision” says Director and retiring Managing Director, Ines Patritti. “We believe a fresh set of eyes from outside the family will inject renewed vigour and confidence into the business, ensuring its longevity for the generations to come.”
An enhanced strategic plan, that aligns with the board’s vision will be developed, whilst the leadership team and organisational structure will also be reviewed. After substantial growth in exports to Asian markets over the last 40 years, the company plans to also review its export focus, building stronger distribution networks in the UK, Europe and USA.
“It will be important for me to strike a balance between the implementation of commercial operations, that will ensure the company’s continued growth, and retaining the family traditions and ethos that makes the company what it is today,” says Mr Tiller.
Domestically, the Patritti brand will be galvanised, building on the company’s reputation as a premium McLaren Vale wine producer and as Adelaide’s only fully-operational suburban winery.
Mr Tiller says,
“Patritti has a unique opportunity to offer visitors to South Australia, especially those that cannot make the trip out to the wine regions, a premium wine experience in urban Adelaide and within a stone’s throw of our busy beachside tourist hotspots.”
In a second appointment, Angelo Piantadosi, Principal of Integr8ed will be joining the family board as Director and independent Chairperson. Piantadosi has been working with the family and business in an advisory role for the last eight years, and will work with Tiller and the board to collaboratively ensure the continued success of the business and the governance framework.
The family will remain actively involved in daily operations with three third-generation Patritti’s employed at the company in varying roles, including James Mungall as Senior Winemaker.
“Patritti has a history of entrepreneurship and innovation, and our ability to adapt to changing market conditions has been key to our success. These traits will help both the family and our employees, many of whom have been with the company for a long time, transition to new leadership and the changes that will inevitably follow,” says Ms Patritti. “It’s a truly exciting time for everyone involved.”