The Drinks Trust Welcomes Five New Trustees to its Board

The Drinks Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of five distinguished leaders from across the drinks and hospitality industry to its Board of Trustees: Ryan Cavilla (Finance Director at Mentzendorff), Martin Dibben (Head of Champagne at Searcy’s), Hayley Easton ((Head of Spirits at Tesco), Georgina Haughton (Head of Wine Buying at Sainsbury's) and Susan Martindale (Group HR Director at Mitchells & Butlers). Each brings invaluable experience and sector knowledge, supporting the charity as it continues to strengthen the welfare and professional opportunities available to the people of the drinks industry.

Their collective expertise spans retail, hospitality, and distribution, reflecting a diverse and multi-faceted representation of the sector and ensuring that The Drinks Trust remains closely connected to the needs and challenges of the workforce it serves.

Ryan Cavilla comments: “I am pleased and excited to join the board of The Drinks Trust and support the incredible team and individuals who deliver on the core pillars of assist, restore and develop which is vital to help care and support all those who work in the drinks industry”

Martin Dibben says: “I am delighted to become a Trustee of The Drinks Trust as their work is so important to our industry in the form of support when needed and development for those entering, and already in our sector.”

Hayley Easton comments: “I’m honoured to join the Board of Trustees at The Drinks Trust, a charity whose commitment to supporting the drinks and hospitality community is both vital and inspiring. As the industry faces evolving challenges, I’m proud to contribute to a charity that champions well-being, education, and inclusivity, and I’m committed to helping shape a future where every member of our industry feels supported”.

Georgina Haughton says: “I’m thrilled to join a talented Board of Trustees and Drinks Trust team. The Drinks Trust has been supporting our industry for 140 years and we want it to continue for another 140+ years. It’s more important than ever that we rally together to support those working in our industry and I’m looking forward to contributing towards that.”

Susan Martindale comments: “I am delighted to join the Board of Trustees for the Drinks Trust and to work with such a worthy charity that makes a difference to so many people.”

These new appointments further strengthen the governance and leadership of The Drinks Trust as it continues to evolve and expand its programmes in support of the people and businesses that make the drinks industry thrive. Alongside these new appointments, The Drinks Trust would like to extend its sincere thanks to Simon Difford, Paul Haslam, Guy Lawrence and Andy Smith, who have completed their tenure on the Board. Their dedication, energy, and passion have played a significant role in advancing the charity’s work and impact over recent years.

Neil Barker, Chair of the Board of Trustees of The Drinks Trust, says: “As we continue to work to put The Drinks Trust at the heart of our industry, I am immensely grateful for the work our brilliant board of Trustees do on top of their ‘day jobs.’ As we thank Guy, Simon, Paul and Andy for their service on the board, I am delighted to welcome such a strong group of new Trustees representing every part of our great industry – I look forward to working with them to further accelerate the vital work the charity does for those in our industry who need our help.”

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The Drinks Trust

The Drinks Trust is a trade charity providing financial assistance, emotional support, and opportunity for growth to drinks industry people. Our aim is to alleviate hardship, improve the wellbeing of our colleagues, and support their professional development.

To find out more, please visit www.drinkstrust.org.uk

For media enquiries, please email Alessandra Brugola, Head of Marketing and Communications, at alessandra@drinkstrust.org.uk 

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