The wine industry has long been male-dominated, but Michelle Brampton is a trailblazer in this space as the CEO of the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET). She has not only prioritized female-focused initiatives but has also placed diversity, inclusivity, and innovation at the forefront of her programs. Brampton’s journey in the drinks industry began in her late twenties when she transitioned from a career in management consultancy to a winemaking and distribution business. This move was fueled by a desire for something different, and she found the opportunity in a job advert seeking a finance analyst at SouthCorp Wines, which later became Treasury Wine Estates (TWE). Despite starting in a junior role, Brampton’s dedication and passion for the industry led her to stay with the company for 19 years, eventually rising to key leadership positions.
Fostering Opportunities for Women
Throughout her career, Brampton has been supported by sponsors who recognized her potential and encouraged her to pursue growth opportunities. She emphasizes the importance of having mentors and supporters who push you to seize new challenges. The gender gap in the wine industry has deep historical roots, with the majority of winemakers being male and traditional roles often being passed down to men. Brampton acknowledges these challenges and is committed to making a lasting impact on creating a more sustainable, diverse, and inclusive drinks trade through WSET’s initiatives.
One of the key ways WSET is promoting diversity and inclusion is through its Partnership program, working with companies globally on social impact projects with an agenda for diversity and inclusion. Collaborations with organizations like the International Wine Education Centre and the Black Cellar Club in Cape Town provide opportunities for individuals to access WSET qualifications. WSET also partners with industry organizations in the UK to address issues related to safeguarding and equity for women working in the industry. Brampton’s vision extends to fostering an inclusive and equitable culture within WSET itself, with a focus on gender diversity in the workforce and leadership positions.
Reflecting on her own experiences, Brampton now pays it forward by mentoring other women and helping them recognize their strengths and potential. She understands the importance of having a support system and a sounding board to navigate career choices and challenges. By empowering women to see their worth and capabilities, Brampton is shaping a new generation of leaders in the drinks industry. The impact of her mentorship is visible in the diverse profiles of students enrolled in WSET courses, showing a more balanced gender split and increased visibility of women in leadership roles across the industry.
As Brampton leads WSET into the future, she aims to drive best practices and facilitate discussions to drive positive change in the drinks trade. With the organization’s neutral and well-connected positioning, WSET has a unique opportunity to advocate for diversity, inclusion, and equality in the industry. Brampton’s leadership style combines respect for tradition with a fresh perspective that challenges existing norms, making her a beacon of change in an industry ready for transformation. Her dedication to empowering women and fostering a more inclusive environment sets a new standard for the wine industry, signaling a promising future for women in wine.