DEFRA deputy director Miles Beale, appointed WSTA chief executive

Published: 20 March, 2012

Miles Beale has been appointed as chief executive of the Wine and Spirit Trade Association.

Beale joins the WSTA from DEFRA where he is currently deputy director for EU and international agriculture policy.

He was previously deputy director for European and global issues at the Cabinet Office and spent much of the earlier part of his career at the department for communities and local government.

His experience includes working across a broad range of public policy, including urban regeneration and social exclusion, and has been involved in significant negotiations at national and European level.

He has also worked closely with senior Ministers in successive governments.

WSTA chairman Tim How said: "I am very pleased to welcome Miles to the WSTA.

"He brings with him extensive experience across government, which will help the industry navigate a broad range of policy issues impacting the sector at both UK and EU level."

Beale will join the WSTA in June, until then Gavin Partington will continue as interim chief executive.

Beale replaces Jeremy Beadles, who left the trade body after a six year stint at the end of 2011.

Beale said: "I am delighted to be joining the WSTA team and look forward to supporting its members and the wine and spirit industry to maintain and improve its dialogue with government.

"Together we can chart an effective course between responsibility, growth and consumer choice."

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