19: Grgich Hills Estate Winery President on Growing a Resilient Business

Violet Grgich, President and CEO of Grgich Hills Estate Winery, joins the podcast to discuss lessons she learned from her father, the literal “King of Chardonnay,” and how she’s applied those to her leadership journey. Violet also takes Vistage CEO Sam Reese through the strategies she’s built to prepare and succeed through natural disasters and an ever-changing customer landscape.   

Key takeaways from this episode

• Lead with simplicity and heart: Violet’s leadership is anchored in her father’s mantra: “Do your best. Learn something new. Make a friend.” 
  Reflect: What mantra guides your decision-making?
• Preserve core values through change: Violet emphasizes protecting her company’s core values amid external challenges. 
  Reflect: Do your decisions reflect your values, even during crises?
• Foster a collaborative, multi-skilled team: By hiring people — not just for positions — and encouraging cross-functional skills, Violet builds adaptability and loyalty. 
  Reflect: How are you cross-training your workforce?  
• Prepare proactively for uncertainty: Regenerative organic farming shielded Grgich Hills’ vineyards from wildfire smoke damage.
  Reflect: Assess proactive strategies that can strengthen your business against external forces.
• Delegate to focus on growth: Violet’s challenge of letting go of tasks is an ongoing struggle. 
  Reflect: What’s one thing you did today that could have been delegated to your team? 
• Prioritize authentic customer connections: Despite tech advances, Violet affirms the irreplaceable value of in-person experiences.
  Reflect:  Are there areas where you can balance both digital and personal connections to build loyal customers?

For show notes and more leadership development information visit vistage.com/podcast

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For 65 years, Vistage has helped CEOs, business owners and key executives reach new levels of success and leadership development.