Innovators and Change-Makers — Apply now for Future Leaders 2025

The search is on for the next generation of change-makers in the Australian grape and wine sector, with applications now open for Future Leaders 2025, the sector’s peak leadership development program. 

Future Leaders is offered every two years and is designed for high-performing mid-career professionals with the ambition and capability to drive progress at a personal, business and sector level. Open to applicants in roles across the wine sector’s value-chain, it identifies and empowers individuals who are invested in the future of the sector, equipping them with the skills, networks and insights to lead with impact.

Graduates emerge with a deeper understanding of industry dynamics and the knowledge and skills needed to foster resilient and sustainable businesses. It calls on participants to address some of the sector’s greatest challenges through collaborative and innovative solutions. 

Delivered by leadership program provider Pragmatic Thinking, Future Leaders blends personal and professional growth with an immersive learning experience featuring engaged facilitators and speakers, along with coaching from industry experts and program alumni.

Since its inception in 2006, more than 150 Future Leaders alumni have gone on to influence and shape the sector, from vineyard management and winemaking to marketing, trade and research.  

Caitlin Davies was sales and marketing coordinator at Jericho Wines when she completed the Future Leaders program in 2023. She most recently took on the role of Commercialisation and Translation Project Manager at the Australian Wine Research Institute.

“Future Leaders has skyrocketed my professional development,” Caitlin said.

“More importantly, within my cohort we have created a supportive community of lifelong friendships, and an exceedingly valuable professional network. 

“Though our industry is facing challenges, as effective leaders our cohort is now well placed to turn them into opportunities. The Future Leaders program will give you all the tools you need to help create the wine sector that you want to work in,” she said.  

“Future Leaders is one of the best courses I've ever participated in,” said 2023 alumni Andrew Shedden, of Endeavour Drinks. “The bonds that are created during an experience like this are enduring and will not only benefit the participants but hopefully be felt in our wider networks and across the industry in the years to come.”

Wine Australia Senior R&D Program Manager and Future Leaders coordinator Jo Hargreaves said the program was instrumental in fostering resilience and adaptability across the wine sector. 

“Now, more than ever, competent leaders are needed who can drive change and create opportunity. Future Leaders continues to evolve and to empower participants with the mindset, confidence and capabilities to navigate the challenges ahead. Graduates are better positioned to implement progressive leadership practices that align with the sector’s long-term vision,” Ms Hargreaves said. 

“Because Future Leaders participants are drawn from across the value chain, a diversity of experience is brought to the learning environment, creating a valuable network that alumni draw on many years after completing the program.”

Future Leaders is coordinated and funded by Wine Australia, with the support of Australian Grape & Wine, reinforcing their shared commitment to the future of the sector through collaboration and leadership. 

Applications for Future Leaders 2025 will close on 24 March. Successful applicants will be announced during the week beginning 12 May 2025.

An information webinar will be held on Wednesday 26 February. 

To find out more or to apply visit winefutureleaders.com.