Breaking barriers: Helen Kock becomes the first female CEO of Beck Family Estates
In a progressive step for the South African wine industry, Beck Family Estates, renowned for its acclaimed Cap Classique house Graham Beck and Steenberg Vineyards, has appointed Helen Kock as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 November 2025. This pivotal appointment comes at a time when women remain significantly underrepresented in senior positions within both the global economy and the South African wine sector.
Despite women making up more than half of recent graduates in winemaking and viticulture programmes, the industry still shows a stark gender imbalance. According to various studies conducted by Vinpro, Winetech, and WineLand Magazine, less than 15% of wineries are led by women in top strategic roles, with the percentages for cellarmasters and head winemakers equally disheartening. A sobering report from Grant Thornton highlights the broader issue, revealing that women occupy only 34% of senior leadership roles in mid-market companies globally.
Chairman Antony Beck expressed optimism regarding Kock's appointment: “Helen embodies the values we hold dear: passion, excellence, and a long-term vision. Her leadership will honour our heritage while positioning Beck Family Estates for a future defined by innovation, collaboration and renewed global relevance."
The appointment resonates deeply with the company's heritage. Steenberg, a flagship property of Beck Family Estates, was founded in 1682 by Catharina Ras - the first recorded female landowner at the Cape and a pioneer of South Africa's first registered farm. With Kock’s leadership arriving decades later, the company is making a significant full-circle return to female guidance.
Kock boasts over two decades of experience in the wine industry, holding various senior positions at Beck Family Estates and serving as Brand Portfolio Director at Vinimark. Her appointment signals an increasing recognition that diverse leadership enhances performance, deepens consumer connection, and bolsters long-term resilience.
Reflecting on her new role, Kock voiced her vision for the future: “I see this role as an opportunity to build on the work of those who have strengthened South African wine at every level of the value chain. Our industry has extraordinary talent and potential. My focus is on bringing people together around a clear purpose, to grow our brands in a commercially strong way, authentically South African and sustainable for the long term.”
In her capacity as CEO, Kock will oversee the company’s entire portfolio, including Graham Beck, Steenberg Vineyards, and Allure. Her mandate includes bolstering global brand equity, fortifying sustainability commitments, and enhancing destination-led tourism and hospitality experiences. She aims to secure South African wine's rightful place in premium markets, renowned for the quality, provenance, and craftsmanship that define the country's best producers.
“South African wine has never had more potential,” she said. “If we combine quality with clear storytelling, responsible leadership, and a more inclusive industry, we will build brands and businesses that endure for generations.”
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