The Wine Society CEO joins WSTA board

The Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) has welcomed Steve Finlan, who is the CEO of member-owned and non-profit retailer The Wine Society, to its executive board.

Finlan, who brings a wealth of retail experience from a career that spans the likes of Marks and Spencer, Gap and Clark’s, is joining at a time in the history of alcohol trading when excise duty, packaging taxes and business costs are at an all-time high. As well as an impressive track record of success with retailers, Finlan also brings an abundance of experience as the leader of a membership organisation. Finlan joined The Wine Society in 2019 with a brief to modernise the business and become digital without losing the heritage and values of the company.

‘Invaluable’ experience

Now, in joining the executive board of the WSTA, Finlan’s expertise in innovation and finding new paths to success are set to be crucial as the trade seeks opportunities to overcome hurdles, tackle challenges. With this in mind, the WSTA has noted that it plans to use his skillset to assist in finding ways to “navigate” the sector’s struggles, but also look for the positives along the way. The association also admitted that it prides itself on its diverse membership covering the full supply chain – from wine and spirit producers, importers, wholesalers, hospitality and retailers -represented by SMEs and big-name brands, suggesting it is always looking for ways to broaden its perspective.

Speaking about welcoming Finlan, WSTA chief executive Miles Beale said: “We have benefited hugely from Steve’s active participation and wise counsel as a WSTA member over the last few years. It is now a pleasure to have his experience, commitment and cool head of business at the WSTA board table. As we continue to navigate the slings and arrows our sector has been facing on a daily basis, we also need to focus on finding reasons to be cheerful. Steve’s retail knowledge and experience modernising one the UK’s best known wine businesses will be invaluable. I am confident he will be a positive source of information, inspiration and advice for members and for the WSTA team.”

Results-focused

Finlan added: “I have worked closely with Miles and the WSTA team since joining The Wine Society and have been impressed with their dedication and work ethic when it comes to serving their membership. I truly believe that we can make a difference and get results if, under our trade associations, the wider alcohol industry can unite as one voice. I look forward to helping direct and support the next phase of the WSTA’s work in a way that will benefit our broad church of membership.”

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