CEO of WineGB steps down

The CEO of Wines of Great Britain (WineGB), David Parkinson, has stepped down from his position with immediate effect due to health reasons, but will remain on the board as a non-executive director.

David Parkinson

In his new position, Parkinson will be tasked with promoting the industry’s strategy across government departments and to MPs, regional and local councils and other related bodies.

He will also continue to be involved in long-term communications and marketing projects. In a statement, the organisation said these changes would enable Parkinson “to focus his time on these key areas”.

Peter Gladwin, vice chairman of WineGB and owner of Nutbourne Vineyards in West Sussex, will be promoted to the role of non-executive managing director, and together with Simon Robinson, chairman of WineGB and owner of Hampshire’s Hattingley Valley, will manage organisation in the short term.

Commenting on the news, Robinson said: “We are delighted that David is remaining with us. His political and strategic experience and contribution has seen WineGB as an organisation move forward significantly in the last twelve months.”

The board’s other directors include Frazer Thompson of Chapel Down, Tamara Roberts of Ridgeview, Mark Driver of Rathfinny, Bruce Tindale of High Clandon Vineyard, Tim Ingram-Hill of Southcott Vineyard, Guy Howard of Giffords Hall Vineyard and Dominic Buckwell.

WineGB was formed in December 2017 following the formal merger on 1 September of the two industry bodies: United Kingdom Vineyards Association (UKVA) and English Wine Producers (EWP).