Chapel Down Group appoints Andrew Carter as CEO

UK wine and spirits producer Chapel Down Group has appointed Chase Distillery’s managing director Andrew Carter as its next CEO.

Carter will be joining the business effective 13 September. He will succeed Frazer Thompson, who has served as the company’s CEO for 20 years. 

Carter has worked in the drinks industry since 1996 and holds several international sales and marketing leadership positions for companies such as Treasury Wine Estates, Bacardi, Bulmers, and most recently Chase Distillery, across UK & Europe, Asia, Australia and GTR.

Andrew Carter

Chapel Down Group’s chairman, Martin Glenn, said: “Frazer has decided to retire after 20 years of building Chapel Down into England’s biggest wine business and has helped put English wine on the map.

“We are fortunate to be able to announce the hiring of another high calibre executive, Andrew Carter, who has a great track record in building wines and spirits businesses and who can drive further growth at Chapel Down for the benefit of customers and shareholders alike.”

Thompson said: “After 20 years, with the company in good shape after the pandemic, and with a really exciting period of growth ahead, I have decided that now is an ideal time for me to step aside as CEO and for the company to introduce some fresh energy and leadership to the business.

“…I will remain both as a substantial shareholder and advisor.”

Carter added: “I am delighted to be joining at such an exciting time. Chapel Down is the leading English winemaker and I look forward to further building the business and team to deliver the next stage of transformational company growth for our customers and shareholders.

“Frazer has been an extraordinary pioneer of the English winemaking industry and I will work closely with him and the Chapel Down management team to ensure a seamless transition.”