I have enjoyed a long and fulfilling career in wine, and I am currently an independent consultant, writer, educator and competition judge. I joined the trade after obtaining an MA in International Studies from Johns Hopkins University, where a chance encounter with a fine wine convinced me that the wine trade - rather than the diplomatic corps - was the obvious career choice. In 2011, I divested of my interest in and stepped down as Managing Partner of Millesima USA LLC, the U.S. affiliate of Europe?s leader in direct sales of fine wines to consumers via mail order and the Internet. I worked previously for two national importers, last as Senior Vice President-Marketing for Frederick Wildman & Sons, New York, where I directed a team in brand management, advertising, and public relations. I acted as well as buyer and liaison with wineries in a dozen countries, while developing training and education for the firm's staff and wholesalers. In 1993, I became one of the first Americans to pass the Master of Wine examination. For ten years, I dedicated myself to the MW cause, first as Education Coordinator of the North American educational program. I then served as Chairman of the No. American Advisory Board, leading the formation of the non-profit Institute of Masters of Wine (No. America), where I served three terms as its first President. Over the years, I have appeared often as a speaker at U.S. wine festivals and conferences and have led seminars and tastings at hospitality schools, private clubs, and charity functions. My articles and writing have appeared in the Journal of Wine Research, Wine Business Monthly, Santé Magazine, and The Beverage Media Group. For several years, I have written the 'Wine Q&A' on LocalWineEvents.com. Briefly, I also managed an innovative wine competition, and in recent years have judged competitions in Argentina, Turkey, Portugal, China and the U.S. I have been both a presenter and moderator of 'The Great Wine Seminar' in Florida, for many years one of the foremost events in the U.S. for wine collectors. I have been a frequent visitor to the classic wine growing areas of France and speak French fluently. I have led groups of professionals and amateurs on tours of Burgundy. My wine travels have taken me often to Italy as well as Germany, Spain, Portugal, Australia, Argentina, Chile, Greece, South Africa, California, Oregon, and China. Working with wine has given me tremendous satisfaction and stimulation, and the Master of Wine title has enhanced the experience, opening the door to countless opportunities. September 2019

Industry sector(s): Marketing, PR, Distribution, Agency/Importer, Buying, Educator, Consultant, Wine judge

Wine region expertise: South America, France, Alsace, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Rhone, Languedoc, Loire, Champagne

Market expertise: North America

Specialisms: Marketing wine, Supplier/customer relationships, Identifying and meeting consumer demand, Importation, Distribution, Independent retail, Branding