Lisa Kislak, the company’s fractional chief marketing officer since September, will step down in favor of Jeff Ngo, who will start in May. The Duckhorn Portfolio, a leading US wine group, has appointed Jeff Ngo as its new chief growth officer and Lisa Kislak will step down in favor of Ngo. Ngo will take over the role at the end of the month, succeeding Kislak, who has been the company’s fractional chief marketing officer since September.
In his new position, Ngo will be responsible for brand marketing, trade marketing, and DTC operations. He will be in charge of driving growth and increasing brand awareness, as well as leading the development of marketing strategies and campaigns. His role will involve working closely with the company’s winemakers, sales teams, and other stakeholders to ensure the success of the portfolio. Ngo’s background in the wine industry is extensive, with over 20 years of experience in brand management and marketing. He has a proven track record of success in the CPG industry, with a specialisation in wine.
Prior to joining Duckhorn, Ngo was the chief commercial officer at WX Brands, where he was responsible for leading US sales, marketing, and DTC operations for the company’s national wine portfolio. During his tenure at WX Brands, Ngo achieved significant success, including the launch of new products and the expansion of existing ones.
Ngo also worked for Jackson Family Wines for over seven years, where he gained valuable experience in the wine industry. His time at Jackson Family Wines helped him develop a deep understanding of the wine market and the importance of building strong relationships with winemakers, distributors, and other industry stakeholders.
Ngo said: “I have watched the company evolve and grow over the years into one of the most enviable portfolios of luxury wineries in North America. From Duckhorn Vineyards to Decoy, Kosta Browne to Sonoma-Cutrer, this role is a wine marketer’s dream job.”
Duckhorn’s new CFO will be Nihar Bhatt, who joined the company yesterday. Bhatt will succeed Jennifer Fall Jung, who is looking to return to her public company roots.
Bhatt comes from Toms Shoes, where he was CFO. He brings a wealth of experience in finance and leadership, and has a proven track record of driving value creation and change within organisations.
Duckhorn’s CEO, Robert Hanson, said: “Having worked with Nihar in the past, I know he brings a proven track record of driving value creation, leading teams, driving change and creating efficient and effective processes.” He also praised Ngo’s leadership skills and strategic thinking, saying that he is an inspirational, collaborative leader and team builder.
Hanson added: “Our goal is to be the undisputed leader in American luxury wine, with a curated, comprehensive portfolio of growing and profitable winery brands.” He said that Ngo and Bhatt will be instrumental in helping the company achieve this goal.
Duckhorn operates 11 wineries, ten winemaking facilities, eight tasting rooms, and manages over 2,200 acres of vineyards across 38 estate properties. The company’s portfolio includes brands such as Kosta Browne, Calera, and Postmark.
A table highlighting the key appointments at Duckhorn is as follows:

A list of Duckhorn’s portfolio brands is as follows:

1. Duckhorn Vineyards
2. Decoy
3. Kosta Browne
4. Calera
5. Postmark

A list of Duckhorn’s wineries and facilities is as follows:

1. 11 Wineries
2. 10 Winemaking Facilities
3. 8 Tasting Rooms

The company’s wine portfolio includes:

1. Over 2,200 acres of vineyards
2. 38 Estate Properties

Duckhorn’s goal is to be the undisputed leader in American luxury wine, with a curated, comprehensive portfolio of growing and profitable winery brands. The company’s new leadership team, led by Ngo and Bhatt, will be instrumental in helping the company achieve this goal.
The company’s wine industry background is extensive, and it operates a range of luxury winery brands.