Morgan to Lead OWB

By Wine Press Staff

The board of directors of the Oregon Wine Board (OWB), Oregon Winegrowers Association (OWA) and the Trust for Oregon Wine Education and Research (TOWER), recently announced Jeanette Morgan OWB’s new executive director.

Morgan will be responsible for strategic planning and administration of the board of directors and its committees and constituencies. Her leadership will help establish consensus and encourage collaboration among the various sectors of Oregon’s grape and wine industry. In addition, she will serve as a liaison with other partners on promotions, advocacy, research and educational organizations.

“The scope of our organizational mission demands someone who can bring to this industry a broad-based, strategic approach rather than a single-discipline focus to help drive us forward and encourage us to continue as an innovative and collaborative wine industry,” said Sam Tannahill, board chairman and director of viticulture and winemaking for A to Z Wineworks/REX HILL.

“We’re excited to have Jeanette join as our strategic leader and administrator for all three organizations, which are responsible collectively for marketing, research, education and advocacy for the state’s nearly 400 wineries and 800 vineyards.”

Morgan brings robust experience in strategic leadership and government proceedings, most recently as vice president of global government affairs at National Semiconductor Corporation in Santa Clara, Calif. In her most recent executive position, Morgan developed and led global, federal, state and local public policy strategies in support of semiconductors, green technology and renewable energy and efficiency. In addition to her extensive background in government and public affairs, she possesses expertise and commitment to consensus communications and practices.

“I am honored to join the Oregon growers and vintners to further promote the growth of the Oregon wine industry,” Morgan said. “In conjunction with the [Oregon Wine Board] staff and wine community, my goal will be to showcase the economic importance and the innovative and unique spirit of the Oregon wine regions.”

The selection and following appointment of the executive director is the result of a lengthy process involving a six-member search committee of industry representatives appointed by the OWB, in addition to an outside recruiting firm.

“Jeanette is an individual of exceptional achievement in a field which has faced pressures and challenges similar to our own,” said David Beck, OWB director and proprietor of Crawford Beck Vineyard. “Her magnetic personality will open many new doors and build bridges around the state to further strengthen our organization. She is an administrator whose personal sensitivity will draw the best out of her staff and her board members.”