Michelle Brampton, the CEO of WSET, has been a trailblazer in an industry where men have historically dominated the scene. Her commitment to fostering female-focused initiatives and promoting diversity, inclusivity, and innovation has set her apart in the wine and spirit education sector. Brampton’s journey into the drinks industry was a bold move, leaving behind a career in management consultancy to pursue her passion for wine at SouthCorp Wines, which later became Treasury Wine Estates (TWE). Despite initially joining in a junior role, Brampton’s determination and dedication led her to climb the corporate ladder and take on prominent positions such as Finance Director and Managing Director, EMEA.
The wine industry has long been plagued by a gender imbalance, with statistics showing that a significant majority of winemakers are male. Family businesses were traditionally passed down to men, and roles that involved physical labor, such as running vineyards or wineries, were often seen as “men’s jobs.” Brampton acknowledges the historical roots of this issue but is committed to making a difference through WSET’s programs. By partnering with companies globally on social impact projects that focus on diversity and inclusion, WSET is paving the way for a more sustainable and inclusive drinks trade. Initiatives such as the Partnership program, collaborations with organizations like IWEC and BLACC in Cape Town, and industry-wide programs like Drinks United in the UK are all aimed at creating a more equitable and welcoming environment for everyone in the industry.
Brampton’s leadership style at WSET is characterized by her commitment to supporting and empowering women in the workforce. With a majority female staff and leadership team, the company has implemented family-friendly policies, flexible working arrangements, and enhanced maternity and paternity leave options. Brampton believes in mentoring and empowering other women to recognize their strengths and reach their full potential. By sharing her own experiences and providing guidance to women facing challenges in their careers, she is helping to build a more inclusive and supportive environment within the industry.
As WSET continues to offer a diverse range of courses in wine, spirit, sake, and beer, there has been a noticeable shift in the gender composition of students. Brampton is pleased to see more women taking on leadership roles in the industry, thanks in part to the training and qualifications offered by WSET. Looking ahead, she envisions WSET playing a vital role in driving positive change and facilitating important conversations within the drinks trade. As a neutral and well-connected organization, WSET is uniquely positioned to lead the way in promoting best practices and encouraging improvement across the industry.
Michelle Brampton’s leadership at WSET represents a new era of empowerment and change in the drinks industry. By honoring tradition while embracing fresh ideas, she is challenging the status quo and inspiring others to follow suit. Her dedication to empowering women, fostering diversity, and driving innovation is setting a new standard for the industry. As the industry evolves and progresses, Brampton’s vision for a more inclusive and empowered workforce offers a beacon of hope and inspiration for women in the drinks industry worldwide.
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