Caroline Thompson-Hill has made history as the first chair of the WSTA Executive Board from a multiple retailer background. She succeeds Mark Riley, the MD of Edrington UK—an established alcoholic beverage wholesaler—who completed two successful terms in this capacity.
Riley has amassed extensive experience in the sector, drawing on two decades of collaboration with some of the UK’s leading alcohol companies. His knowledge and leadership have set a high standard for his successor.
Thompson-Hill’s career includes significant roles at Diageo and Treasury Wine Estates across Europe and the Americas. Most recently, she served as Managing Director for Accolade Wines in Europe. In the past year, she transitioned to her current position at Marks & Spencer, where she oversees its award-winning alcohol range.
The WSTA highlighted that her diverse skill set—spanning leadership, innovation, and commerce—comes at a pivotal time. Greater collaboration across drinks, retail, and hospitality sectors is essential to advocate effectively with the government on key policies, including alcohol duty, environmental concerns, health, and social care.
Additionally, Riley holds an executive MBA from Bayes Business School in London, where he graduated with distinction. During her inaugural board meeting as chair last week, Thompson-Hill committed to building on existing initiatives to navigate the evolving and challenging commercial and political landscape.
“It is a privilege to be appointed chair of the WSTA Board, and I look forward to working with the team to deliver the best service possible to our members. I am eager to get to grips with the WSTA’s many workstreams to ensure that we prioritize effectively as we enter into a new year,” she stated.
“I hope to continue to work with a board of committed and experienced leaders to bring fresh ideas and support the WSTA’s team to help create a better trading environment for our industry.”
In this role, Thompson-Hill will spearhead the WSTA’s recruitment drive, aiming to cultivate a diverse membership and present a strong, united voice within the food manufacturing sector.
Miles Beale, WSTA Chief Executive, remarked, “We warmly welcome Caroline to the chair and feel fortunate to have an informed, experienced, and pragmatic drinks industry expert at a critical time. She has a passion for the wine and spirit sector, and I know that her thoughtful approach to leadership will be a significant asset to the WSTA and its members.”
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Mark Riley for being such a collegiate and effective chair, and for his constructive and practical approach to leading the board over three challenging years.”
