Lodi, Calif.—Stuart Spencer is the new executive director of the Lodi Winegrape Commission that represents more than 750 growers and 85 wineries in the Lodi AVA. Spencer was promoted from the position of program manager, which he has held since 1999. During his 19 years with the commission, Spencer has led many of the group’s marketing, promotional and educational efforts. Spencer played a key role developing the Lodi Wine & Visitor Center, the LODI RULES for Sustainable Winegrowing and the LoCA advertising campaign.

In his new position, Spencer will oversee the commission’s marketing, public relations, strategic planning, and regional branding efforts, as well as grower and vintner relations. He will lead the winegrape commission team of 12, under the direction of the board of directors and will be the primary spokesperson for the Lodi wine industry.

“We are thrilled to have Stuart step into the executive director role. He has been a huge advocate to the region and we are certain he will continue to lift the perceptions and awareness of Lodi wines” said Kendra Altnow, the vice chairman of the Lodi Winegrape Commission board of directors in the press release announcing Spencer’s new role.