The Drinks Trust has announced the appointment of five new members to its board of trustees. 

The five include 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. 

At the same time, Simon Difford, Paul Haslam, Guy Lawrence and Andy Smith have completed their tenure on the board. 

The Drinks Trust said that the collective expertise among the five new members spans retail, hospitality and distribution, reflecting a broad representation of the sector. It continued that each new member brings “invaluable experience” and  knowledge to support the charity. 

On his appointment, Ryan Cavilla, said: “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 said: “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 added: “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 commented: “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.” 

Meanwhile, Susan Martindale, continued: “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.”