The development, confirmed in a filing to the Australian Securities Exchange late last week, brings to an end Garvin’s four-and-a-half years in the role. Specific details about the allegations were not disclosed although the company thanked Garvin “for his service … over the past four years, and the contributions he has made to the business over that time.”
Peter Perrin, who has been one of Australian Vintage’s non-executive directors since 2016, will assume the position on an interim basis, while an “extensive global search process” is being undertaken for a longer-term replacement.
“While we are disappointed by the circumstances leading to his departure, we believe this decision is in the best interests of the company and its stakeholders,” AV said. “The board remains committed to upholding the highest standards of conduct and accountability for all employees, including senior leadership.”
Back in July, the company, which owns the McGuigan, Nepenthe and Tempus Two brands, kicked off a strategic review of its business due to what it described at the time as a “challenging business environment”. This was followed earlier this year by the commencement of negotiations with Accolade Wine over a possible merger.
“These discussions are continuing, although there remains no certainty that any transaction will eventuate,” the group noted in last week’s filing.
