by Bob Campbell
Although appointed managing director of Pernod Ricard NZ Ltd only two years ago, Chris Lynch leaves the job on 31 December to join Beam Wine Estates in California as chief marketing officer. Bean Wine Estates announced Lynchճ appointment to the new position before the low-key official announcement of his resignation from Pernod Ricard NZ on 20 November. It was a tough career decision, said Lynch, citing family reasons for the move. This was not an easy decision to make. I love New Zealand and have been totally committed to strengthening our reputation here and championing the cause of New Zealand wine on the world stage. However after much deliberation I have decided it is time I was closer to my family and therefore am moving home to the US. I know I leave a strong team here, who will to continue building on the successes we have had in recent years, Lynch and his wife, Brenda, own Mutt Lynch Winery in Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County.
A successor is yet to be named.
