Symington took on the role of chair in 2019 and is being replaced by his cousin Rupert, who previously served as CEO.
Meanwhile, Charles, another cousin who has worked as head winemaker at the firm, is taking on the role of co-CEO alongside fellow family member Rob.
Born in Porto, Portugal, Symington was one of the fourth generation of the family raised in the port trade. After a stint with a medical firm in London, he joined the family business in 1985 as commercial director, before being named joint managing director in 1994.
During his time with the firm Symington helped oversee a strong period of growth, with port brands including Cockburn’s, Dow’s, Graham’s and Warre’s central to that success.
Symington Family Estates began producing still wines in 1999 and over the last 25 years the family has developed a portfolio of wines produced in the Douro and Vinho Verde regions in Portugal, and sparkling wines from Hampshire in the UK.
Reflecting on 40 years with the business, Symington described it as a period of “incredible progress, innovation and growth”.
“Our company has gone through several total transformations over the last few decades, which has enabled us to become more relevant and successful in a rapidly changing and increasingly competitive market,” he said.
“What has impressed me most over the years are the people who make things happen. Despite the changing times, their motivation, adaptability and commitment have shaped our business for the better. Their resilience and courage through the Covid pandemic was truly impressive.
“I’m filled with confidence in those that will succeed me and the future of our company. I’m certain that our long-standing legacy and reputation for quality and reliability will continue. We will maintain our ability to adapt to a world that may well change as much in the next 40 years as it has in the last 40.”
