Former Gusbourne CEO and head winemaker Charlie Holland has been announced as the new chair of WineGB, as the trade body looks to the next phase of growth for English and Welsh wine.

Notable for his 20+ career, Holland has held a number of overseas winemaking positions, from Napa Valley and Southern France to Germany and New Zealand. It was his work with Gusbourne however that put him firmly on the English wine map. He then went on to join Jackson Family Wines in 2023 to set up and develop their new English wine business. 

WineGB said Holland brings extensive experience of industry expertise and will be focused on driving transformational change.

“Having worked across the wine, agriculture and drink sectors for many years, I’ve seen first‑hand the pressures and opportunities that shape our industry,” Holland added.

“From climate variability to rising production costs and the demands of a rapidly expanding market, these challenges are real, but they are also navigable with the right leadership and collaboration. I’m committed to helping WineGB and its members weather these pressures, strengthen resilience, and ensure our industry continues to thrive long into the future.” 

The appointment comes at a time of sustained expansion for the English and Welsh wine industry, with vineyard plantings, production volumes and consumer demand all continuing to rise. WineGB’s strategic focus for the coming year includes enhancing member services, supporting export development and reinforcing the UK’s position as a world‑class wine‑producing region. 

Holland takes over from interim chair Nick Wenmn ahead English Wine Week, which runs from 20 to 28 June.

Wenmn said: “Serving as interim chair has been a great privilege. Our members, our wines and our momentum have never been stronger. I’m thrilled to pass the baton to Charlie, our new chair, and watch this remarkable community continue to thrive.”