Beadles to leave WSTA

Jeremy Beadles is to leave his position as chief executive of the Wine and Spirit Trade Association in the new year.

After six years in the role, Beadles is moving on to become corporate relations director at Heineken UK.

Beadles said: “I have had a fantastic six years with the WSTA and, whilst I will be sad to leave, I am really looking forward to this new challenge. I leave behind me a great team and a thriving association.

“I have been extremely fortunate to have the support of two very fine chairmen, Christopher Carson and Tim How, and an excellent board. I would like to thank all of the members who have supported us as we have grown and developed the organisation.”

How added: “The last six years have seen a radical change in the way the WSTA works on behalf of our industry and I would like to thank Jeremy for his tremendous contribution to this.

“The Association’s standing with government and the media has never been higher. We have an excellent team working hard for our membership, which has grown in that time from 200 to 344 businesses.

“This year alone we have successfully merged with the Gin & Vodka Association, established an anti-fraud unit, launched a fully funded subsidiary to roll out Community Alcohol Partnerships and led the development of the Responsibility Deal.

“On behalf of the board and the members I wish Jeremy every success in the future.”

The WSTA has not yet announced who will succeed Beadles as chief executive.