The Sonoma Valley Vintners and Growers Alliance has appointed long-time Marketing and Events Director Maureen Lamb Cottingham to the position of Executive Director of the Alliance. Cottingham had been named Interim Executive Director in June.
Michael Muscardini, President of SVVGA, noted, “The search committee, as well as the whole board, was thrilled to offer Maureen the position as our Executive Director. Maureen has consistently demonstrated her passion and commitment to over 500 members of SVVGA as well as the whole Sonoma Valley community.”
Muscardini added, “The committee took its time to do an extensive search. With over 50 applicants considered and personal interviews with six candidates, it was clear that Maureen was the top choice. The board and I couldn’t be more pleased and wish Maureen continued success.”
Cottingham has been with the SVVGA for five years. Her leadership, especially as Executive Producer of the Sonoma Wine Country Weekend, is well established by both the success of the event and by her peers. As Interim Director, she managed the day-to-day operations, interacted with the board and membership, and kept the Alliance on course and growing.
“This is a wonderful opportunity and one I take quite seriously,” Cottingham said. “I want to thank the SVVGA board for their continued support. This is a great time for Sonoma Valley, a place I live and will continue to promote with our membership.”
The Sonoma Valley Vintners & Growers Alliance is a non-profit trade organization serving more than 500 vintners, growers and associates who share a mission to promote awareness of Sonoma Valley’s grapes, wine, terroir and history as the birthplace of the California wine industry.
The Sonoma Valley Vintners and Growers Foundation (SVVGF) is a non-profit organization that has raised more than $8 million for local Sonoma Valley charities through the Sonoma Wine Country Weekend and Sonoma Valley Harvest Wine Auction.
