US: Danowski to head up Oregon Wine Board, Oregon Winegrowers Association

By Olly Wehring | 7 December 2011

The Oregon Wine Board (OWB) and Oregon Winegrowers Association (OWA) have appointed Tom Danowski as executive director of both trade bodies.

The two organisations confirmed the move yesterday (6 December), with Danowski replacing Steve Burns, who held the position temporarily after Jeanette Morgan resigned from the role in June. Danowski joins the OWB and OWA having managed a strategic marketing consulting business in the Seattle area for the last two years.

He has also spent time working for Chateau Ste Michelle and Columbia Crest Wine Estates. Danowski will be charged with leading the OWB’s and OWA’s marketing, education and research programmes.

The two trade bodies represent Oregon's 420 wineries and 850 vineyard owners. Jeannette Morgan was appointed to the role in November last year, meaning she held the post for seven months.

Expert analysis

US Wine Market Forecast to 2012

The wine market is currently witnessing steady growth in both developed and emerging economies. Increasing disposable incomes, rising awareness about the medical benefits of wine, and the resultant consumer shift towards consumption of premium alcoholic beverages are driving the growth in the wine industry.

Sectors: HR – personnel, Wine