WineGB appoints head of partnerships to drive growth
Industry body WineGB has expanded its leadership team as the English and Welsh wine sector accelerates. Nicola Bates, CEO, speaks to the drinks business about future ambitions.
WineGB has created a new head of partnerships role as part of a broader effort to strengthen its organisational structure and support continued sector expansion, according to the organisation. The move reflects what it describes as ongoing investment in capability, insight and commercial direction as the English and Welsh wine category develops at pace.
Neil Walker has been appointed to the position, bringing experience in transformational leadership and client management from his time at NatWest, where he led teams across several years. His remit will centre on developing commercial opportunities for members while shaping partner propositions intended to deliver measurable value.
Nicola Bates, chief executive of WineGB, said Walker’s arrival would strengthen the organisation’s ability to serve its network. “Neil joins a team dedicated to supporting the rapid growth and maturity of the UK wine sector. With Neil deepening and expanding our sponsors and members, we will be better able to deliver greater value to our members.”
A sector in rapid expansion
The appointment comes as the domestic wine industry continues to grow strongly. There are now more than 1,150 vineyards and 240 wineries across the UK, producing 16.5 million bottles in 2025, a 39 per cent increase on 2024.
This growth is accompanied by a calendar of national activity, including Welsh Wine Week from 29 May to 7 June, English Wine Week from 20 June to 28 June, and the WineGB AGM, conference and awards ceremony on 16 July, followed by the national trade and press tasting on 7 September.
Experience rooted in the category
Walker’s connection to the sector extends beyond corporate leadership. He is the founder and chief executive of The English Vine, an online marketplace dedicated to English wine, and studied viticulture and oenology at Plumpton College. He also produces his own wine under the Red Beard label.
Partner Content
His combined commercial and practical experience is expected to inform WineGB’s approach as it seeks to align partner engagement with the needs of producers.
Commitment to quality and identity
Bates set out the organisation’s wider ambitions in comments to the drinks business. “Our commitment is clear; we will champion excellence at every stage of production, strengthen the integrity of our awards and ensure that English and Welsh wines continue to stand among the world’s best,” she said.
She added that WineGB would continue to support producers through guidance, technical training and research investment, as well as promoting the category through trade missions, tourism partnerships and international events. “We have one clear message: Create New Traditions – Drink English and Welsh wine. UK wines are the world’s most exciting cool climate region, pairing innovation and craft, and its producers are redefining quality, sustainability and regional identity.”
Export demand gathers pace
International sales are playing an increasingly central role in the sector’s development. Export volumes rose by 35 per cent last year and now account for 9 per cent of total sales, according to Bates.
“Export is already essential and is one of the primary growth engines for the English wine sector,” Bates told the drinks business. “International demand for the cool climate wines produced in the UK is accelerating at pace and sales have seen an increase of 35% last year and account for 9% of sales.”
She added that key markets include Norway, Japan and the United States, where English wines are gaining ground against established producers. The organisation is working with the UK Department for Trade to expand export promotion programmes and present English and Welsh wines in major global cities.
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