Jean-Franois Mau, who has headed up Bordeaux ngociant Yvon Mau for 35 years, is to leave the company next month.
He will be replaced by Philippe Laqueche, who takes the general manager role. Laqueche was previously employed at Michelin in Holland, but has worked for Bordeaux ngociant Dourthe in a marketing role.
"I am excited to be returning to Bordeaux," said Laqueche, "and to a company that has always been one of the most visionary and proactive in the region."
Mau, who will continue to be involved with Yvon Mau as a consultant, was a key figure in developing new Bordeaux brands such as Yvecourt and Premius, and also strove to import New World wines into France.