Dr Mark Krstic is stepping down as MD of AWRI

The Australian Wine Research Institute (AWRI) has announced that Dr Mark Krstic will be stepping down as Managing Director at the end of 2026, following seven years of leadership and a total of 15 years of service to the AWRI.

Since becoming Managing Director in December 2019, Krstic has led the AWRI through a period of considerable challenges and change, maintaining focus on practical, industry-relevant science and support.

He has been a strong advocate for innovation and applied science, with a consistent focus on ensuring research outcomes translate into real-world benefits for the sector. His contribution was recognised in 2020, when he was named ASVO Viticulturist of the Year.

In his role as Managing Director, Krstic launched Affinity Labs, AWRI’s fee-for-service commercial testing lab, and established a CRC-P focused on No and Low (NOLO) alcohol wine production. He led efforts to secure the AWRI’s core strategic partnership with Wine Australia and Adelaide University, oversaw the successful delivery of the 2022 and 2025 Australian Wine Industry Technical Conferences, and has strengthened important ties with international scientific and commercial wine testing laboratories, keeping Australian wine science at the forefront of global conversations.

Krstic has also played a longstanding role in smoke taint research and emergency response since 2006. He was central to the AWRI’s response through major bushfire events in 2013, 2019 and 2020, helping growers and producers navigate particularly challenging conditions.

“I have loved leading such a talented team of dedicated and passionate professionals who are deeply committed to advancing Australian wine through trusted, world-class science and practical industry solutions,” Krstic said.

“The AWRI is in a strong position, with an exceptional team, deep industry relationships and a clear purpose. I leave the organisation with enormous pride in what has been achieved and with every confidence that the organisation will continue to play a vital role in supporting the future of the Australian grape and wine sector,” he said.

The AWRI Board acknowledged Krstic’s significant contribution to the organisation, its people and the wider industry, and thanked him for his dedicated leadership. They are planning for a smooth leadership transition, with the help of Krstic.

Image credit: iStock.com/Mr.Bon.