Nicole Chesney has joined the NCDA&CS Marketing team as the Wine Marketing Specialist assuming the role of Executive Director of the N.C. Wine and Grape Council. In this role, Nicole will lead focused efforts to promote and grow the state’s wine, cider and mead industries through marketing and industry support.
In addition, as the leader of the N.C. Wine and Grape Council, she will coordinate events, support growers and producers and collaborate with stakeholders to enhance both statewide and national recognition of North Carolina’s wine, cider and mead industries.
“North Carolina’s wine, mead and cider industry is steadily gaining ground, linking agriculture, tourism and small business growth in communities across the state. From vineyards that preserve farmland to wineries that draw visitors and support rural economies, we’re seeing exciting products and increased recognition from consumers across the state,” said Peter Thornton, NCDA&CS marketing director. “We are delighted to welcome Nicole Chesney, whose leadership will help us build on this success and usher in an exciting new chapter for North Carolina wine, cider and mead.”
Chesney received her bachelor’s degree in communication from George Mason University and her MBA in wine marketing and management from INSEEC School of Business and Economics. She has nearly 30 years of marketing experience in the food and beverage industry, including roles as bar manager at The Palm in Tyson’s Corner, Virginia; manager at the Burger Joint in Singapore; and export marketing specialist at Château de Lionne, a vineyard and winery in the Graves region of Bordeaux, France.
Her expertise includes event management, market trend analysis and an in-depth knowledge of the wine and grape industries. She looks forward to fostering the growth of this emerging industry by continuing to share the story of North Carolina wine and its producers.
Chesney is happily married and has one son, Gryffin, and a dog, August. In her free time, she enjoys reading, scuba diving, gardening and playing with flowers.
Please join us in welcoming Nicole Chesney to the team. We’re eager to see the impact her knowledge, passion and dedication will bring to this position and industry.