The New York Wine & Grape Foundation has found someone to replace the longtime president of that organization.
Samuel Filler will be the executive director of the Canandaigua-based organization, replacing Jim Trezise, who announced in January that he will be leaving the job he’s had for 30 years, since the organization was founded.
Filler has served as Director of Industry Development for Empire State Development since 2012. In that role, he was a liaison between state government, and the wine, beer, spirits and cider industries.
Before that, Filler held a number of positions in economic development and public service. Trezise says that Filler’s direct experience with the industry in the regulatory, financial and promotional arenas make him the ideal choice for the role.
Filler will not start his new job until next January. Trezise will remain president of the organization through March of next year to help ensure a smooth transition.
