The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) has named Melissa Gerbaldi as its new media relations manager.

Gerbaldi joins from the Royal Meteorological Society, where she served as communications manager. She has also previously worked for English Heritage.

According to the HTA, her “wide range of experience and personal passion for plants” will “further boost the HTA team and “strengthen its commitment to increasing communications and cut-through of the voice of UK environmental horticulture”.

Gerbaldi said, “I am excited to be joining the HTA at a critical time when there are so many stories to share from our members and industry as well as the impactful work of the association itself. It is a great opportunity to use my skills and experience in media relations to help our members prosper and grow, and I look forward to getting to know everyone.”

Jennifer Pheasey, HTA director of public affairs, added, “We welcome Melissa to our team at this exciting time for UK horticulture and the HTA. Melissa’s breadth of experience in communications and PR will help bolster the team and provide a key point of contact for media. We are a sector full of opportunities, fantastic businesses and stories, and this role will be key to delivering even more impactful communications for our industry.”