Robert P. K.

Background

About Robert P. K.

Robert P.(Bobby) Koch is president and CEO of Wine Institute, the public policy advocacy organization representing more than California wineries and affiliated businesses. These member companies are responsible for over 80% of U.S. wine production and more than 95% of American wine exports. In this role, Koch leads the institute’s mission to champion the long-term success of California wine by overseeing government affairs, legal and regulatory matters and international marketing initiatives.Koch brings decades of leadership experience at the intersection of policy and industry. Since joining Wine Institute in 1992 as vice president of Federal Government Relations, he has played a pivotal role in elevating the voice of California wine in legislative and regulatory arenas. He became senior vice president in 1996 and was appointed president and CEO in 2003. Prior to his tenure at Wine Institute, Koch held senior positions in the U.S. Congress with House Majority Leader Richard A. Gephardt and House Majority Whip Tony Coelho. He earned his B.A. in government and politics from the University of Maryland.Under Koch’s leadership, Wine Institute has positioned California as a global leader not only in wine quality and innovation, but also in sustainability. Today, 90% of California wine is produced in certified sustainable wineries, and 65% of the state’s vineyard acreage is certified sustainable — demonstrating the industry's commitment to environmental stewardship, economic vitality and community engagement. Koch is a member of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Policy Advisory Committee for Trade (APAC) and serves on the board of directors of the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance.