WSTA’s Carlo Gibbs to take on government role

The Wine and Spirit Trade Association’s director of UK policy and social responsibility, Carlo Gibbs, is leaving to take on a new role with the UK Government.

Carlo Gibbs is leaving the WSTA after seven years

Gibbs has worked with the WSTA for seven years, having helped guide the organisation through nine budgets, five exchequer secretaries and two general elections.

“I have really enjoyed my seven years at the WSTA, working with all our members across a range of complex and testing policies like minimum unit pricing, our duty campaigns and all of our social responsibility efforts,” said Gibbs.

“I will be sad to leave behind the wonderful team, but a fantastic opportunity has arisen and I am looking forward to a new challenge. I wish the industry continued success and know the WSTA will be there to support it through the major issues it faces going forward.”

Later this summer, Gibbs will take up a new post as senior policy advisor in the Department for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy.

WSTA chief executive, Miles Beale, said: “We are extremely sad to be losing Carlo from the WSTA team. His knowledge and experience of alcohol policy is extensive and his contribution to our budget campaigns and CSR initiatives has been huge.

“However, I am always delighted when WSTA team members move on to important and worthwhile roles elsewhere; and Carlo has grabbed a great opportunity to broaden his horizons.

“We wish him well in his exciting new role in the business energy and industrial strategy team.”