Brief
Groot Constantia names Dr Edo Heyns as new CEO effective 19 October
The Groot Constantia Trust board said Heyns will succeed long‑time chief Jean Naudé after a hand‑over period.
By Felo News Desk · Published
The Board of the Groot Constantia Trust announced that Dr Edo Heyns will become chief executive officer of the historic wine estate on 19 October 2026, with a structured hand‑over from the outgoing CEO, Jean Naudé, who will retire on 30 November 2026 after 24 years in the role.
Board chairperson Clifford van der Venter said the appointment "builds on the strong foundations that have shaped South Africa’s oldest wine‑producing farm for generations" and that the transition has been carefully planned to ensure continuity across operations, teams and strategic priorities.
Naudé, who joined Groot Constantia as CEO in 2002, highlighted the estate’s focus on sustainability, quality and commitment, adding that he is confident in the team and the incoming CEO. He praised the staff and expressed pride in the achievements during his tenure.
Heyns brings a breadth of experience across the wine value chain. From March 2024 he led Allée Bleue Estate in Franschhoek as CEO, overseeing wine production, hospitality, farming, herbs and estate operations. His responsibilities there included strategic and commercial leadership, financial management, human resources, marketing and sales, as well as expanding distribution partnerships and transforming the hospitality offering.
Earlier in his career, Heyns held senior roles at Advini South Africa and other wine‑industry organisations, gaining exposure to both local and international markets. He described Groot Constantia as having "an extraordinary foundation and a rare combination of wine, place, people and purpose" and said his focus will be on building on that foundation while working closely with the estate’s talented staff.
Key facts
- Dr Edo Heyns will assume the CEO role at Groot Constantia on 19 October 2026. (bizcommunity.com)
- Jean Naudé will retire on 30 November 2026 after 24 years as CEO. (bizcommunity.com)
- Clifford van der Venter is chairperson of the Groot Constantia Trust board. (bizcommunity.com)
- Heyns previously led Allée Bleue Estate from March 2024, overseeing wine, hospitality and farming operations. (bizcommunity.com)
Sources
- [1] bizcommunity.com — originally reported as “Groot Constantia builds on legacy as new CEO is appointed - FusionDesign”
