The Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) has appointed Tamara Roberts as chair of its board of trustees, taking over from Simon McMurtrie, who has chaired the board since 2020. 

The WSET has also added Andrew Paynter to its board of trustees, replacing Dan Jago, who has been a trustee since 2020. 

Roberts has been the CEO of English wine producer Ridgeview for the past 11 years. In this role, she has overseen significant international growth, expanded production and led major investment in winemaking facilities. 

She has also held influential roles across the industry, at both WineGB and the WSTA. 

Paynter joins the board following a career at PwC, where he served as a partner for more than 25 years. He is also a member of the Vintners’ Company and its court. 

On her appointment, Roberts said: “It’s an honour to be taking on the role of chair of trustees at WSET, an organisation that continues to set the global standard in drinks education. I’d like to thank Simon for his leadership and dedication, which have left WSET in such a strong position. 

“I look forward to working with Michelle and the board of trustees to build on this success and ensure WSET continues to inspire and educate the next generation of drinks professionals around the world.” 

Paynter added: “I’m very pleased to become a WSET trustee and to be supporting Michelle and the team at such an important time. 

“As a long-standing member of the Vintners’ Company, I am well aware of the pivotal role that WSET has played in drinks education for more than 50 years and I hope that my financial background will also be beneficial as WSET looks to continue its growth trajectory into the future.” 

Michelle Brampton, WSET CEO, said: “I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Simon McMurtrie for his unwavering support during his five years as chair and eight years as a trustee.”