Sam Linter named new chair of WineGB

Managing director of Bolney Estate, Sam Linter, has been appointed the new chair of WineGB, and will replace current chairman Simon Robinson.

Robinson is set to step down from the role at the beginning of August after four years at the helm of WineGB, having chaired the board since its inception.

Linter, who, in addition to managing Bolney in West Sussex, is also the estate’s head winemaker, has serve on the WineGB board for two years.

“Some time ago, I indicated that the board has been considering succession planning. This meant not only trying to ensure that there is balanced producer representation, which was a key aim when WineGB was formed, but that also good skills are available to the board, and that the board is diverse and inclusive.

“While these changes cannot happen overnight, I always believe it right to lead from the front. Hopefully I’ve left WineGB in a much stronger state and that we’ve created a resilient, united and effective organisation to represent producer interests,” Robinson said.

Robinson, who owns Hampshire-based Hattingley Valley Wines, played a pivotal role in founding Wines of Great Britain when English Wine Producers merged with the UK Vineyards Association in 2017.

Linter said of her new role: “It’s an honour to have been appointed as chair of WineGB. We have an amazing association full of creative and talented people and it continues to be an exciting time for our industry as we move forward into this new phase for WineGB.

“During my tenure as chair of WineGB I want to ensure we bring greater diversity within the board and association as a whole, so that we get the best possible people with the widest range of skills, as well as seeking greater collaboration and communication with the whole membership.”

Nick Wenman of Albury Vineyard, who joined the board last year, has been named deputy chairman, replacing Peter Gladwin, who retired in March.

Both Robinson and Gladwin have been appointed honorary vice president of WineGB, recognising the contribution they have both made to the company.