Grape Growers of Ontario welcomes a new general manager to the team. Following Mary Jane Combe's retirement, Maria Zegarac has joined bringing with her 30 years of experience across both public and private sectors. 

“Maria understands how to strengthen and grow organizations at the operational level,” said CEO Debbie Zimmerman. “Her experience and skills will assist our organization as we navigate the future. We are delighted to have Maria head up our day-to-day operations, and strengthening the GGO team for our passionate and hard-working growers.” 

"Adding Maria’s support and experience to the GGO team will allow our CEO to concentrate her ongoing efforts on critical government relations and advocacy work." said Board chair, Matthias Oppenlaender.

Most recently, Maria was executive director of Hopewell Children’s Homes in Guelph, where she spearheaded significant growth in the organization’s capacity and revenue. A graduate of Brock University, Maria furthered her education at the Rotman School of Management and is a Chartered Professional Accountant. She actively contributes to her local community, chairing the board of Re-imagine Ontario in Oakville and having sat on the boards of Workforce Planning Hamilton and Banyan Community Services.

Source: Grape Growers of Ontario November 1, 2024 newsletter