Changes to the board at WSET

The Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) has announced several changes to its Board of Trustees, including a new chairman.

The trust announced today that James Simpson MW was stepping down from his role as chairman of the board and that Nick Hyde, chairman of Vranken Pommery UK (pictured), would take over.

Simon McMurtrie, formerly chairman of the Family Board at Berry Bros & Rudd also joins the WSET board to represent the Vintners’ Company.

Simpson commented: “It has been a privilege to serve as a Trustee for WSET for the past six years. As chairman I was particularly proud to work with the WSET team to steer international growth and secure the Trust’s future with the purchase of new additional premises in London at Baden Place.

“WSET continues to go from strength to strength and I have no doubt it will see further success under the new board.”

Hyde added: “I’ve been part of a board that has worked closely with chief executive Ian Harris in developing a transformational plan for the future growth of WSET that will reinforce its global leadership.

“Now, as chairman, my role and that of the board will be to ensure that the conditions are in place for the successful transition to this exciting next chapter. It will certainly be a challenge made easier by the extraordinary energy and commitment of the WSET team.”

Both Hyde and McMurtie will be working closely with the WSET’s senior management and trustees Troy Christiansen, Rick Connor, Jonathan Driver, Susan McCraith MW, Simon Thrope MW and Michael Turner.

Chief executive Ian Harris, said: “It is an honour to have such industry talent and experience on the board. I look forward to working with Nick, Simon and the wider board as we continue to lay the path for the future of WSET.”