South Africa Wine is excited to announce the appointment of Karin Kleinbooi as Executive Manager Transformation and Development, a newly created position within the South African wine-industry body that oversees all activities related to transformation and development in the South African industry. As an accomplished professional in agricultural development Kleinbooi is dedicated to driving positive change and brings with her a wealth of experience in sustainable agriculture.
She and her team will be responsible for driving impactful transformation in the wine and brandy industry value chain, advancing ownership and land reform, people, skills and socio-economic development, including responsible consumption and provide an advisory service to members.
Kleinbooi has a Bachelor of Social Work from Stellenbosch University and completed an MPhil in Land and Agrarian Studies. She is passionate about sustainable practices and has accomplished skills in rural development. She started her career in research, moved on to work as a social auditor in the wine industry, after which she became an independent consultant on rural and agricultural development projects, global food systems and climate programmes before ending up as senior regional programme manager at Solidaridad Southern Africa.
“I am very honoured and excited to join the South Africa Wine team to realise our shared vision for the future of the wine and brandy industry in South Africa,” said Kleinbooi. “I extend my sincere gratitude to the board for entrusting me with this important role, and am fully committed to making a positive and meaningful impact on the organisation and the broader industry. Embracing equity and diversity in the wine and brandy industry is not only about acknowledging historical imbalances, but also a moral imperative and the key to unlocking untapped potential and driving sustainable economic growth.
“As we build our industry to thrive we position ourselves as responsible and progressive leaders in the global market, setting an example of a forward-thinking, inclusive and socially conscious wine and brandy industry,” says Rico Basson, South Africa Wine CEO. “It is no mere chance that we are at this juncture. I believe we can elevate the industry and become a leading example for other sectors. I am looking forward to working towards transformation and proudly representing an industry that signifies a beacon of inclusivity and equity, that upholds a culture of meritocracy, and that reflects growth and prosperity among all in the industry.
“We are excited to embark on a new journey of transformation and development with Karin as lead “Successful transformation of the wine and brandy value chain is one of four strategic outcomes of the industry growth strategy, and I am positive Karin will provide leadership to the industry, forge new partnerships with government and other stakeholders and ensure inclusive growth. We want to welcome her to the South Africa Wine family and wish her all the best in her new role.”
