Sparking wine producer Gusbourne has confirmed Jonathan White as its new chief executive.

The Appledore-based producer will replace Charlie Holland who stepped down from the role in September. Mike Paul had been interim CEO while the hunt for Holland’s successor took place.

Jonathan White has been with the company since 2018 and had been its marketing director. He was hired for the top job after a “rigorous internal and external search process”.

During his time as marketing chief, he had been instrumental in the global expansion of the Gusbourne brand and establishing its ‘direct to consumer sales channel’.

Gusbourne chairman, Jim Ormonde said: “In the five-and-a-half years he has worked at Gusbourne, he has shown real passion and commitment to building Gusbourne into one of the UK’s most prestigious wine brands. He brings an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the business along with great leadership qualities and significant wine industry experience.

“The board would like to thank Mike Paul for his wise counsel as Interim CEO and supporting the ongoing strategic progress of the company.”

Mike Paul will now resume his role as non-executive director.

Jonathan White previously worked for independent wine distributor Armit Wines and wine and spirits merchant Berry Bros & Rudd.

His appointment has also seen a reorganisation of its leadership team, with Simon Bradbury appointed chief commercial officer. He was previously global sales director. Katharine Berry, the group’s chief financial officer, will take on responsibility for vineyard and wine operations alongside her existing remit covering finance, HR and IT.