Meet the team

Gerard ensures that the South African wine industry recognises and uses science and technology as foundation stones for business success. Gerard has worked in the wine research, development and innovation environment for almost 20 years. He is passionate about innovation, co-creating value-adding research projects, and developing people and knowledge that benefits the entire agriculture ecosystem. Internationally, he represents South Africa Wine on a large Horizon Europe research consortium as an innovation and technology transfer expert.

Anel facilitates the smooth and efficient operation of the viticulture R&D committees, including the flagship committees, and serves on all the other RDI committees. She coordinates internal networks and manages external and internal public relations and networking by handling queries and requests, attending industry events, and participating in industry forums. Additionally, she compiles the budget and manages the funds for all projects and initiatives within the Research, Development and Innovation portfolio. Internationally, Anel is the Viticulture Scientific Expert for South Africa at the International Organisation for Vine and Wine (OIV).

Adriaan is responsible for the oenology R&D portfolio, supporting the management and efficient operation of all R&D vitivinicultural committees. His role ensures that projects selected for funding align with industry needs and sustainability goals. As a member of the Innovation Committee, he provides strategic and commercial insights important for evaluating the potential of research ideas. Adriaan also oversees the digital platform for South Africa Wine, utilising Google Cloud technology to support research initiatives and other agricultural industries. Internationally, he serves as the Vice President of the Expert Group Techno under Commission II at the OIV, an intergovernmental organisation and represents South African Wine at FIVS, participating in various task forces, including the Codex Task Force and the Scientific Technical Committee, to monitor and address potential technical trade barriers affecting the industry.

Sha-Iesta offers comprehensive support to the Research, Development and Innovation department. Her role encompasses office management and coordination and ensuring our departmental administrative efficiency.