WASHINGTON, D.C., 09/07/2022 – The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) President and CEO Search Committee has named Francis Creighton as incoming President and Chief Executive Officer for the association.
Creighton is currently President and CEO of the Consumer Data Industry Association (CDIA), the voice of the consumer credit reporting industry, representing agencies including the nationwide credit bureaus, regional and specialized credit bureaus, background check companies and others. He will join WSWA full time in November.
“Francis brings government relations expertise, consumer behavior experience and a vision for the future of WSWA as it continues to serve and advocate for its members at the state and federal levels. Additionally, his expertise with leading a data-focused organization will bring WSWA’s SipSource, industry studies and other data projects to new heights,” said WSWA Chairman of the Board Tom Cole. “The association’s search committee was guided by the expert assistance of Heidrick & Struggles, a leading executive talent search firm. After considering several well-qualified candidates, we are confident Francis will be a great leader as our industry evolves and navigates new environments.”
WSWA, the national trade association representing the independent distribution tier of the wine and spirits industry, has bolstered its government affairs team to increase advocacy capabilities at the state and federal level, making Creighton a well-suited captain for this highly capable team.
“Consumers benefit from the three-tiered regulatory system with safe products and an incredible range of choices, and I look forward to supporting wholesalers by working with the WSWA team, member companies and industry partners to make sure the U.S. marketplace continues to be the most diverse and competitive in the world,” said Creighton. “I am eager to get started and add my skills and experience to our strong industry team,” he added.
Prior to joining CDIA, Creighton served as Chief of Staff to U.S. Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut. Before that, he worked in the legislative and executive branches on financial services, employee benefits and campaign finance reform. In the private sector, Creighton led government relations for the Financial Services Roundtable, which represents top U.S. financial companies including banks, asset managers, insurers and payment firms. He also worked for the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) on affordable housing and other issues important to the real estate finance industry. Recognized as a “Top Lobbyist” by The Hill newspaper, Creighton has appeared in national and international print, television and radio outlets as a contributor.
Creighton holds a master’s degree in public policy from Georgetown University, where he has been an adjunct faculty member. He received his bachelor’s degree in political science and history from the University at Albany, State University of New York, and also studied at Glasgow University. He resides in the Washington, D.C., area with his wife.
About Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America
WSWA is the national trade association representing the distribution tier of the wine and spirits industry, dedicated to advancing the interests and independence of distributors and brokers of wine and spirits. Founded in 1943, WSWA has more than 380 member companies in 50 states and the District of Columbia, and its members distribute more than 80% of all wine and spirits sold at wholesale in the United States.
To learn more, please visit www.wswa.org or connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.
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