Hallgarten creates new regional sales director role

By Jo Gilbert

Published: 24 October, 2016

Luton-based suppliers Hallgarten Druitt & Novum Wines has boosted its senior management team with the creation of a new director of regional sales role.

Knapp began his career at Oddbins, working alongside Steve Daniel, Hallgarten's current head of buying for the 17 years he was there, and was responsible for the growth of the retailer's wholesale division.

Knapp also spent six years working with Matthew Clark, firstly as national account director and then as director of wine before moving to Cockburn & Campbell as general manager.

In his new role, Knapp will be responsible for the four regional sales teams in London, The South, The North and Scotland heading up a 41-strong team.

He will also bring additional focus to pushing the company's 1000+ wine portfolio and broadening its account base.

"Robin joins us at an exciting time for both Hallgarten and the wine industry," MD Andrew Bewes said. "His combination of experience, un-bounding passion for wine and obsession with customer service, will be invaluable in our quest to work in partnership with the UK's leading restaurants, hotels and retailers."

Meanwhile in London, Francois Lincoln is moving on from head of London sales at Liberty Wines after 13 years with the company in order to join Las Bodegas.

Taking up the mantle is Tim Fordham, who is being promoted from within.

He will now lead the 11-strong team to in the "challenging London market".

Earlier this month, The Cotswolds Distillery announced the hiring of James Mason, formerly of LVMH and most recently head of sales at Nyetimber, as its new global head of sales.

Mason replaces John Jeffrey in the role, and is now responsible for key UK accounts and exports.

Prior to Nyetimber, the Oxford graduate held management roles in sales strategy and international business development at Moet Hennessy.

Mason will help the distillery drive the launch of its single malt whisky following on from launch of its Cotswolds Dry Gin in 2014.

Daniel Szor, founder and CEO, said: "We're very excited to have James joining us in this key role, particularly with the launch of our Cotswolds Single Malt now less than a year away. James has great experience in the premium drinks sector and this will help build on the already-strong growth of our exciting brand."

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