Small-business advocate Devon Perry was tapped as executive director of Garden State Wine Growers Association, the organization announced March 21.

Perry’s work over the past 20 years has centered on connecting with small businesses, cultural organizations and community partners to help realize their full potential, facilitate collaborative opportunities and increase brand awareness, while making a difference.

“Devon brings a wealth of experience in marketing and tourism, as well as an impressive team of professionals, to this role,” said Scott Donnini, chair of the board of directors at Garden State Wine Growers Association. “Our future looks even brighter with this seasoned marketing and hospitality industry professional at the helm. We are beyond excited that she agreed to join us.”

In 2017, Perry founded Segel Associates, a boutique interactive media firm specializing in brand strategy, social media, public relations and crisis communications. She was previously director of marketing and business development for Kings Hall, executive director of Visit South Jersey, chief executive officer of WineLovers LLC, and founder of ShareURMeal.

“It is an exciting time to lead the Garden State Wine Growers Association, when ‘Jersey Fresh farm-to-table’ is the mantra and ‘shop local’ can happen almost in your own backyard,” Perry said. “I have always been drawn to work that is centered around connection, collaboration and community. I’m so excited to continue that work here with the Garden State Wine Growers Association. I genuinely believe that together, we can put the thriving New Jersey vineyard and wine industry on the global map.”

The GSWGA was founded in 1987 to drive growth in the industry through wine education initiatives, cooperative marketing campaigns, and a slate of annual events dedicated to bringing New Jersey wines into stores and into the spotlight.

The GSWGA works closely with the Rutgers Agricultural Experimentation Station network and the newly formed Rutgers Wine Grape Resource Center. The association forges and maintains positive relationships with state and local government entities, and advocates on all levels for wine grape industry interests.