Wine Association Taps Renowned Nonprofit Executive with 25 Years of Experience Innovating Organizations
SANTA BARBARA, CA (Nov. 29, 2017) – The Santa Barbara Vintners (SBV) — a nonprofit 501 (c) 6 organization, which supports and promotes the area as a world-class wine region — announced their new Chief Executive Officer today. After a national search, the SBV Board selected nonprofit expert Alison Laslett to take the helm.
Laslett, who boasts 25 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, starts her new position today (Nov. 29). She will lead the SBV in strategic planning, events promotion and community outreach as governed by a nine-person Board of Directors.
“We are thrilled to welcome Alison to Santa Barbara County,” said Matt Murphy, SBV Board President and owner of Presqu’ile Winery. “Her extensive experience as a consensus builder, innovator and leadership expert in the nonprofit arena will serve our industry and community well.”
Prior to joining SBV, Laslett ran Represent Consulting, which offered leadership coaching services to companies, nonprofits, boards, high-potential employees and executives, for nearly three years. From 2013-2015, she was a key leader at Parent Revolution, a $5 million nonprofit organization whose mission is to transform public education. Prior to that role, she oversaw or held leadership positions at a variety of nonprofits for 15 years, from education advocacy groups to community service agencies. She worked with nationally renowned funders such as the Gates Foundation, the Broad Foundation and Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors. As a Chief Operating Officer, she offered business management and operational leadership, focusing on systems management, financial review and team-building.
“I have been captivated since my first interview with the Board,” said Laslett. “The people are tremendous. They’re authentic and driven, and obviously what makes this industry thrive. Between the stunning beauty of this land and the magnetism of these winemakers, Santa Barbara Wine Country has it all. We’re going to share that with the world.”
About Santa Barbara Vintners
The Santa Barbara Vintners (Santa Barbara Vintners Association) is a nonprofit 501 (c) 6 organization founded in 1983 to support and promote Santa Barbara County as a world-class, authentic wine producing and wine grape growing region. The Association includes winery members whose annual production is at least 75% Santa Barbara County (or sub-AVA) labeled, winery associates, vineyards, vineyard management companies, hospitality, and industry associate members. The Association produces festivals and wine country weekends; educational seminars and tastings; provides information to consumers, trade, and media; and advocates for the Santa Barbara County wine and grape industry.
