Chief Executive Officer

About Ontario Wine Appellation Authority (OWAA)

OWAA is the regulatory body responsible for maintaining the authenticity and standards of Ontario's wine appellations. Established in 1998 under the Vintners Quality Alliance Act, 1999, OWAA monitors and enforces winemaking and labeling norms to preserve consumer confidence in local wines.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation and enforcement of the appellation of origin system as defined by the VQA Act, ensuring consumers can identify wines based on grape origin, winemaking methods, and quality criteria.
• Regulate all terminology and descriptions connected to the VQA appellation framework.
• Serve as the Wine Authority per the VQA Act, liaising with government and stakeholders on wine standards.
• Educate and collaborate with the grape and wine community, governments, and the public to highlight the importance and benefits of VQA certified wines and appellations.

Role Overview

The CEO reports directly to the Board of Directors and oversees all executive, statutory, and administrative responsibilities linked to the VQA Act. Leading a team of five staff and various contractors, the CEO ensures all regulatory functions—such as wine testing, winery audits, compliance investigations, and enforcement—are thoroughly executed. Additionally, the role involves fostering industry relations, managing educational programs, and providing expert regulatory guidance regarding wine standards and trade discussions.

The CEO champions a culture focused on compliance paired with education and continuous sector improvement, helping wineries comprehend and navigate regulations successfully.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Senior leader experienced in regulation, particularly in inspection, audits, investigations, and legal proceedings within regulated industries (e.g., designated agencies, professional bodies).
• Skilled in government relations and adept at building transparent, trustworthy partnerships aligned with shared goals.
• Strong stakeholder relationship management across diverse groups, including wineries, businesses, associations, and government entities.
• Knowledge of the VQA Act or comparable wine laws is advantageous.
• Commitment to professionalism, ethics, and unbiased decision-making.
• Detail-oriented with proven consistency in documentation and judgment.
• Understanding of governance best practices and Board support.
• Strategic thinker capable of evaluating complex risks and decisions.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and management acumen with a hands-on approach.
• Outstanding communicator, both written and spoken, skilled in diplomacy and public presentations.
• Competent in HR, finance, and technology oversight for operational management and team leadership.
• Self-driven yet collaborative, adaptable to various environments and engagement levels.
• Post-secondary or advanced degree in law, management, public policy, sciences, or related disciplines.
• Must provide a criminal record check and hold a valid Ontario driver's licence.

Additional Information

This is a leadership role replacing the retiring incumbent. The position demands accountability, transparency, and government compliance while progressing OWAA’s vision and mission. The Ontario Public Service fosters an inclusive hiring process reflective of community diversity and complies with human rights and accessibility legislation. Applications are managed through an executive search firm and no AI is used in applicant evaluation.