Executive Director Grant Raeside Resigns to Pursue Other Endeavors
It was announced today that the Sonoma Valley Vintners and Growers Alliance (SVVGA) Board of Directors appointed long-time Marketing and Events Director Maureen Cottingham to the position of Interim Executive Director. This is on the heels of 5-year Executive Director Grant Raeside’s resignation.
“There is nothing more consistent than change” noted SVVGA President Michael Muscardini. “Maureen is uniquely qualified to lead our organization moving forward, as she has helped direct every initiative including our big annual events like Passport and the Sonoma Wine Country Weekend. She will act as interim director while the Board searches for a permanent new Executive Director. We additionally respect Grant’s decision to leave; he was a valuable part of the growth the Alliance achieved in the last five years. We wish them both success.”
Ms. Cottingham has been with the SVVGA for 5 years. Her leadership, especially as Executive Producer of the Sonoma Wine Country Weekend is well established by both the success of the event and by her peers. Her involvement with the day-to-day operations with the Board and Membership ensures a seamless transition.
Cottingham noted, “I’m excited about the opportunity and look forward to moving the goals of the Board and Membership forward”
Mr. Raeside, a long time national event producer is looking forward to the next chapter of his career and will be working inside and outside the wine industry moving forward. “I enjoyed my tenure at SVVGA” exclaimed Raeside, “But the time was right to move on. I wish Maureen, the Board and Membership well.”
