Shawn Conway has officially stepped down as CEO of Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, becoming the third chief executive to leave Washington’s largest wine company in just five years.
Conway, who took the helm in March 2023, will transition to lead Far Niente Wine Estates in Oakville, California, the company confirmed on Tuesday.
In response to his departure, Ste. Michelle appointed Anna Mosier and David Bowman as co-CEOs of its Washington business. Mosier previously served as chief supply chain officer, while Bowman was the company’s chief commercial officer. Meanwhile, Amy Prosenjak, formerly president of Ste. Michelle’s Oregon operations, has been promoted to CEO of that division.
The company praised Conway’s contributions in a statement, noting his efforts in “refining and refocusing the wine portfolio” and strengthening Ste. Michelle’s Pacific Northwest roots during a pivotal transformation period.
Conway’s departure adds to a string of leadership changes at the Woodinville-based winery. He succeeded David Dearie, who exited in 2022 after a short tenure following the retirement of longtime CEO Jim Mortensen in 2020.
Before joining Ste. Michelle, Conway held executive roles at Peet’s Coffee, SKYY Spirits, and Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream.
The leadership shake-up comes as Ste. Michelle navigates major changes under its owner, Sycamore Partners, a New York private equity firm that acquired the winery for $1.2 billion in 2021. Since the sale, the company has shed its California wine brands, announced layoffs, and relocated white wine production from Woodinville to Eastern Washington in an effort to cut costs.
Beyond operations, Ste. Michelle is also preparing a major redevelopment of its 118-acre Woodinville chateau property. Plans include building single-family homes, retail and restaurant space, a boutique hotel, and expanding its concert venue from 4,300 to 5,800 seats, with added parking for more than 1,300 vehicles. Groundbreaking could begin as early as next year.
