Diageo wine head nominated as new WSTA boss
Diageo Wines Europe managing director Nick Hyde has been nominated as the new chairman of the Wine & Spirit Trade Association.
Hyde’s role at Diageo includes managing Percy Fox, which markets Blossom Hill and other wine brands, international fine wine merchant Justerini & Brooks, Bordeaux negociant Vignobles Internationaux and online retailer Quintessentially Wine.
His nomination will be put forward for approval at the WSTA's annual general meeting in April 2012.
He will take over from former Majestic boss Tim How, who has been WSTA chairman since April 2009.
Hyde started his career with spells at Unilever and United Biscuits before joining International Distillers & Vintners, where he became managing director of London wine merchant Morgan Furze. He has been a member of the WSTA board for more than 10 years.
He said: "I have always believed the trade achieves more when it works together, so I'm delighted to be asked to chair the WSTA. These are challenging times for many businesses, which is why it's vital we have a strong and confident voice speaking on behalf of the sector.
"I'd like to thank Tim How for his work on behalf of the WSTA over the past few years."
How said: "The WSTA is stronger than ever, with an expanding membership and a significant role in many areas of work affecting the sector. After a career in the trade it has been a privilege to help the association fight our corner."
