A local viticulturist is looking forward to taking a leadership development program in the wine industry.
Matt Duggan from Domaine Chandon has been selected for Wine Australia’s Future Leaders.
Future Leaders is a professional and personal development program that creates a network of confident, committed individuals who will be the next and contribute to the future success of the Australian wine community.
Mr Duggan said he’s incredibly honoured and excited to be selected for the Future Leaders program.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn from some of the best minds in the industry and to connect with passionate peers from across Australia. I’m also proud to represent Domaine Chandon Australia and Victoria on a national stage,” he said.
“I’m thrilled about this fantastic opportunity to better myself and, in turn, make a positive impact on the wider wine industry. I’m eager to embrace significant personal growth, particularly in my leadership skills, which I believe will empower me to drive the industry forward.
“I’m also excited to foster strong relationships with other brilliant and dynamic young professionals, as I see collaboration with inspiring peers as essential to our collective success and innovation.”
Mr Duggan’s colleague, Kat Herd, who was part of a previous cohort of the program, strongly recommended that he apply for the Future Leaders.
“Kat described it as ‘the best leadership program I’ve ever done,’ praising its exceptional organisation and high-level content,” he said.
“With a recommendation like that, ‘how could I not apply?’, I’m eager to enhance my skills and contribute to shaping a vibrant future for our sector, particularly here in Victoria.
“Plus, the program’s reputation for fostering innovation and collaboration really appealed to me.”
The 15 Future Leaders 2025 were selected from an outstanding field of 86 applicants.
Offered every two years, Future Leaders continues to cement its reputation as a premier opportunity that delivers significant personal and professional transformation for participants.
Future Leaders is funded and coordinated by Wine Australia, supported by Australian Grape and Wine and delivered by Pragmatic Thinking.
Wine Australia chief executive officer Dr Martin Cole said recent years, in particular, have seen unprecedented challenges across the sector, including market volatility, declining global consumption, and the imperative for innovation and sustainability.
“Future Leaders plays a vital role in developing individuals with the strong and adaptable leadership response required to navigate this complexity, demonstrating clear alignment with the One Grape and Wine Sector’s strategic objectives,” Dr Cole said.
The selection panel, Dr Cole, Australian Grape and Wine chief executive officer Lee McLean, and seven Future Leaders alumni, were delighted with the quality of applicants and their spread across business size, roles and the value chain.
The successful local applicant said he’d like to express his gratitude to Wine Australia for their support.
“Participating in the Future Leaders program will be hugely beneficial not only to me but also to my work at Domaine Chandon Australia, as it will enhance my ability to contribute meaningfully to our team and the broader wine industry in Victoria,” Mr Duggan said.
“I’m excited about the opportunity to bring back new ideas and insights to our region, sharing what I learn with colleagues and the wider community.
“Ultimately, I hope to contribute to making our local wine industry even more vibrant and successful.”
Star Mail contacted Yering Station to get comments from senior winemaker Brendan Hawker who has also been selected for the Future Leaders.
