Waitrose head of trading for beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks Pierpaolo Petrassi has left the business after 16 years.
Petrassi, a Master of Wine, has also played a leading role at the Wine & Spirit Trade Association, having served on its board of directors for eight years from 2016 to 2024. For the last two of these years he was vice chairman of the association.
Before joining Waitrose, Petrassi spent three years at Tesco as a senior product development manager, having previously been wine buying director at Waverley TBS.
Announcing his departure on Linkedin, Petrassi said: “Leaving a place that has been such a massive part of my life is never easy. Waitrose has been far more than just an employer; it’s a business that champions the values I hold most dear – fairness, courage, equality, honesty and integrity.
“Along the way, it has given me lifelong friendships, unforgettable experiences, and the privilege of working with some of the most talented people in the industry.”
In terms of his next move, he said: “I am excited to explore new opportunities that bring me closer to the products, producers, and people that make it so special.
“Whether through buying, brand building, commercial leadership, trade engagement, or presenting, I look forward to sharing my experience and continuing to champion the wines, spirits, and people I care so deeply about.”
The post gained hundreds of messages from well-wishers including Waitrose staff, supplier contacts and both current and former members of the Waitrose senior leadership team.
“We will miss you enormously,” wrote Waitrose chief customer officer Nathan Ansell. “Thank you so much for everything you have done for Waitrose over the years.”
A Waitrose spokeswoman told The Grocer: “We would like to thank Pierpaolo for his dedication, contribution, expertise and industry leadership over the past 16 years, he leaves with our very best wishes.”
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