Bruce Hunter Retires from Shaw-Ross International After Three Decades of Leadership

Bruce Hunter Retires from Shaw-Ross International Importers

December 8, 2025, marks the retirement of a significant figure in the global wine and spirits industry. Bruce Hunter, Managing Director of Shaw-Ross International Importers, will officially step down from his role at the end of the year after nearly 30 years with the company. His legacy is characterized by growth, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Shaw-Ross has emerged as one of the USA's leading importers, thanks in large part to Hunter's strategic vision and leadership. Reflecting on the impact of his career, Alfred Small, Shaw-Ross's Chief Financial Officer, praised Hunter’s deep industry knowledge and dedication, stating his influence etched in every facet of the organization. Hunter has not only been an inspirational leader but also a mentor to many in the industry, leaving behind a respected stature and a robust operational framework that will continue moving the company forward.

Hunter began his journey with Shaw-Ross in 1995, joining as Executive Vice President and Director of Wines. By 1998, he shifted to oversee marketing, where he spearheaded the creation of a professional brand management system, a move that was pivotal for the company’s expansion.

In 2004, he ascended to the role of Managing Director, providing transformative leadership for over two decades. Prior to his tenure at Shaw-Ross, Hunter accumulated extensive experience in the industry, holding senior roles at Almaden Vineyards since 1970 and later at Parrott Company, where he became President from 1984 until his transition to Shaw-Ross.

With Hunter's departure, Scott Jove will succeed him as President and Chief Executive Officer. As the current President, Jove is well-prepared for his upcoming responsibilities, having joined Shaw-Ross in 2015 and rapidly advancing through the ranks. His commitment to the company and innovative approach will be crucial as he leads Shaw-Ross into a new chapter. Notably, Jove is a proud graduate of Duke University and completed his JD and MBA at the University of Miami, showcasing a balanced complement of legal and business acumen.

In anticipation of the transition, Hunter and Jove will collaborate closely over the next few weeks ensuring that leadership responsibilities are transferred seamlessly. Jove expresses deep gratitude for Hunter’s guidance, acknowledging his mentor’s significant contributions and the solid foundation he laid for the organization.

As Shaw-Ross looks towards the future, this change in leadership signals both an end and a beginning. Hunter’s retirement reflects a remarkable journey filled with hard work, dedication, and transformative influence in the industry. Scott Jove is well-positioned to uphold the values instilled by Hunter while steering the organization towards new growth and opportunities.

Founded in 1968 as a boutique importer, Shaw-Ross now represents over thirty suppliers from around the globe, ensuring their brands achieve national distribution through a comprehensive network of wholesalers. Hunter's visionary leadership not only facilitated Shaw-Ross's journey from a niche importer to a key player in the global market but also left an indelible mark on the wine and spirits industry itself.

As we bid farewell to Bruce Hunter, we also welcome Scott Jove's fresh leadership that promises further innovation and expansion for Shaw-Ross International Importers.