WSTA announces new chief executive

Miles Beale, who is to take the role in June, is currently deputy director for EU and International Agriculture policy at the Department for the Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

He was previously deputy director for European and global issues at the Cabinet Office, and spent much of the earlier part of his career at the Department for Communities and Local Government, WSTA said.

The group added: “Miles has worked across a broad range of public policy, including urban regeneration and social exclusion, and has been involved in significant negotiations at national and European level. He has also worked closely with senior ministers in successive governments.”

WSTA chairman Tim How said: “I am very pleased to welcome Miles to the WSTA. He brings with him extensive experience across government, which will help the industry navigate a broad range of policy issues impacting the sector at both UK and EU level.”

Beale said: “I am delighted to be joining the WSTA team and look forward to supporting its members and the wine and spirit industry to maintain and improve its dialogue with government. Together we can chart an effective course between responsibility, growth and consumer choice.”

Interim chief executive Gavin Partington will remain in his role until June.