The Gin Guild has strengthened its leadership with the appointment of two new directors as the international membership body surpasses 600 members worldwide.
Sophie Best, Director at William Grant & Sons’ Silent Pool Distillery, and Andrew Parsons, Master Distiller and Co-founder of The Sky Wave Distilling Company, join the Board to support the Guild’s mission to unite the global gin community and champion excellence across the category. They join existing Board members Dr Anne Brock, Kathy Caton MBE, Christopher Hayman (Chairman), Jim Long, Charles Maxwell, and Martin Riley.
Sophie, who has helped build Silent Pool Gin into one of the UK’s most recognisable premium brands, said:
“It’s a real honour to join The Gin Guild Board and to contribute to an organisation that brings so many passionate, like-minded people together. Being part of the Guild has been a unique and rewarding experience. I’m looking forward to supporting the Guild’s work in championing the category, driving meaningful collaboration, and helping to create even more pathways for learning and growth in the years to come.”
Andrew, whose award-winning Sky Wave Gin has achieved international acclaim, brings a distiller’s perspective grounded in innovation and craft. He said:
“It’s an honour and a privilege to be invited to join The Gin Guild Board and to work alongside such respected figures from the industry. Being a member of the Guild has been hugely rewarding, both personally and for the growth of Sky Wave. It’s an incredibly supportive community and I see this role as an opportunity to give something back.”
Their appointments coincide with Dan Szor, founder of The Cotswolds Distillery and former Gin Guild director, becoming Master of the Worshipful Company of Distillers on 20 November.
Director General Pal Gleed welcomed the appointments and congratulated Dan on his new role, noting their combined contributions will further strengthen the Guild’s work in supporting the global gin community.
The Gin Guild is a not-for-profit international membership body. It promotes excellence in gin distillation, production, and promotion, supporting members across the global industry. For more information visit www.theginguild.com.