A biotechnology graduate, Carmel Kilcline has worked in the food and drinks industry for over 30 years. She gained her MW qualification in 2005, and received three awards for her performance in the examinations. She currently works for Marks and Spencer as their Head of Technology for BWS, Soft Drinks and Juice.

Carmel worked for a decade with the UK retailer Sainsbury's, which allowed her to work with producers in most wine regions of the world. She then moved to Diageo Wines Europe, where she worked in leadership roles there for over 12 years, focusing on wine development, blend selection and innovation.

As a consultant, Carmel has been involved in education, wine communication platforms, sustainability and packaging projects. Prior to joining M&S, she worked for Bibendum as their Head of Technical. Carmel judges for international wine competitions when time allows.

Current employer: Marks and Spencer

Primary area(s) of work: Wine production, Trade, Strategy

Industry sector(s): Agency/Importer, Consultant, Distribution, Educator, Off trade, QA/QC, Technology, Wine business strategy, Wine judge

Market expertise: United Kingdom

Specialisms: Sustainability, Fermentation, Legal compliance with authorised oenological practices, Stabilisation and clarification, Wine styling, Blending, Bottling, Bulk shipment, Legal compliance on authorised packaging and labelling, Preparation of finished wine for bottling, Packing and labelling, Quality assurance and control, Sensory evaluation , Supply chain efficiency, Brand protection, Branding, Corporate sustainability reporting, Distribution, Education, Food and wine pairing, Identifying and meeting consumer demand, Motivation, New business development, Supplier/customer relationships, Supermarket and multiple retail, Technology, Wine laws and regulations, Wine judging