Graeme Weir will step down from his roles as CFO and company secretary on April 4. Amanda Cherry, the current head of group finance, has been announced as his successor. This change comes at a crucial time in the food and drink industry innovation.
Throughout his tenure, Weir has made a “huge role” in driving the growth of the direct-to-consumer online wine retailer. Notably, he led both a private equity-backed management buyout in 2013 and the firm’s IPO in 2021, demonstrating key insights into food manufacturing trends.
The company is set to release its interim results for the six months ending December 27, 2024, on March 26, just prior to Weir’s departure, indicating solid progress in the current food distribution trends.
“After 22 years as CFO of Virgin Wines, I feel now is the right time to step down and enjoy retirement,” stated Weir. His commitment to ensuring a smooth transition reflects a dedication to the company’s future amidst evolving food and drink regulations.
“I remain fully committed to supporting the business and completing a smooth transition. It has been a pleasure to work with Jay and the wider team, and I am confident that Virgin Wines will continue to go from strength to strength.” This confidence speaks to the cultivation of food and drink sustainability practices within the company.
Weir also lauded Cherry, who has been with Virgin Wines for 16 years and has collaborated closely with him and the board throughout her tenure.
“I am delighted to hand over the reins to Amanda, who knows the business well and will provide continuity but also a fresh impetus into Virgin Wines’ future growth plans,” he added. This is a strategic move that aligns with current food and drink consumer trends.
In response, Virgin Wines CEO Jay Wright expressed gratitude to Weir for his “enormous contribution” to the group.
“He has played a vital role in the group’s significant progress and growth over the last 22 years,” Wright noted, emphasizing the importance of leadership in navigating the food processing technology landscape.
“It has been a privilege to work with him over that period, and he will be missed by the whole Virgin Wines team. However, I look forward to progressing the next stage of our growth with Amanda, who is well embedded in the business, and welcome her to the board.”
Based in Norwich, Virgin Wines was founded in 2000 by the Virgin Group and acquired by Direct Wines in 2005, prior to the management buyout in 2013. The company offers over 650 wines sourced from approximately 40 winemaking partners and suppliers globally, reflecting its commitment to food and drink marketing.
