Join us during National Wine Careers Week to discover routes into wine with our panel of industry insiders.
Event details
The wine industry is a diverse and dynamic sector, providing career opportunities for people with a wide range of skills and interests. Career paths range from grape growing and wine production, to business, marketing, sales, logistics and hospitality.
Chaired by Sam Linter, Head of Wine at Plumpton College, our panel of four wine experts will share the stories behind their unique careers. You'll also learn about the training and qualifications available to help you get into the industry or progress in your career.
After the discussion you'll have the chance to ask our speakers about their career paths, training, and industry trends - have your questions ready!
We'll finish the evening with the opportunity to meet the panellists and your fellow attendees.
Who should attend?
- You work in wine and are looking to learn more about the different roles in the industry.
- You want to make a career change and move into the drinks industry.
- You want to learn from and be inspired by industry leaders.
- You'd like the opportunity to network with fellow wine industry professionals.
Meet the panel
Jamie Avenell, C&C Group
Jamie has over 20 years experience in the drinks industry, the last 15 years of which have been working with what began as a buying job with an independent Bibendum Wine, now part of C&C group, where he now holds the position of wine buying director for C&C. Over the years Jamie has gained experience working with most wine producing areas around the world in a business that supplies every channel of the market, and had experience in other areas of the business outside of buying. He’s also currently a second year master of wine student, and judge for various wine competitions including Decanter World Wine Awards.
Joe Rook, Molson Coors
Joe is a Wine and Spirits Development Manager for Molson Coors. He joined the industry through an Apprentice scheme in 2022 covering areas in National, Wholesale and Regional IFT while being an avid ambassador of the entry level talent schemes across the industry. While only being 21 years of age he has forged a career for himself within an industry he didn't know existed 4 years ago. Having recently passed his WSET 3 exams Joe is interested in continuing his studies and learning more about the ever-evolving industry.
Phoebe French, WineGB
Phoebe is Communications Manager at WineGB. She joined the wine industry while still at university and has since worked in retail, logistics and more recently journalism as Deputy Editor of The Drinks Business magazine. She joined WineGB in 2022. Her role within the organisation has taken her around all the regions in the UK and liaising with many of its producers, curating webinars and leading tastings. She is now responsible for all the key communications from the industry including editing and contributing to its industry magazine, The Grape Press.
Valeria Granara, Nyetimber
Valeria joined Nyetimber in 2023 and currently works as an International Sales Coordinator, overseeing global shipping for both Nyetimber and The Lakes Distillery. Her role also includes supporting brand events and contributing to exciting partnership projects, such as the rollout of the Team GB Special Edition. Before joining the wine and spirits industry, Valeria worked in property management as a Compliance Team Coordinator, overseeing regulatory and safety compliance across a large property portfolio. She holds a WSET Level 3 qualification and began her wine education journey in 2021. Valeria brings a strong background in operations and customer service, which she applies to her work with professionalism, precision, and a passion for the drinks industry.
Panel chair: Sam Linter, Plumpton College
Sam Linter is Director of Wine at Plumpton College and boasts a wealth of experience and accomplishments from a long career in the UK wine industry. Sam is second generation English vineyard family – her parents founded Bolney Wine Estate in Sussex in 1972. She became Head Winemaker then MD of the operation, overseeing significant expansion in both vineyards and production. During her leadership there she where she transformed the brand into one of the UK's top ten wine producers. Sam oversaw the sale of the estate to Freixenet Copestick in 2022
Sam is also currently the Chair of WineGB. Her dedication to raising awareness about English wine is a hallmark of her career. Throughout the years, Sam has been an active participant in various groups and initiatives aimed at nurturing the industry's growth and amplifying its recognition.
Booking terms and conditions
Payment in full must be made at the time of booking and places are not confirmed until payment has been received. Unfortunately we cannot take provisional bookings.
Cancellations and transfers
- Cancellations and transfers can be made up to two weeks before the event.
- Cancellations within 10 working days are non-refundable and cannot be transferred to another event.
- If you need to change a name on the booking, please give us as much notice as possible.
- WSET School London reserves the right to cancel an event. If necessary, a full refund or transfer will be offered.
Please note: The sample list and speaker/s may be subject to change.