By Amy Looker, editor – National Liquor News
The Australian Grape and Wine Authority (AGWA) has appointed Laura Jewell MW to the position of regional director for the UK and Europe.
Jewell, who will commence her new role in February next year, is currently the category product development manager of wine at retail giant Tesco where she oversees its wine portfolio in 11 markets.
With close to 25 years’ experience in the sector and a Master of Wine qualification attained in 1997, Jewell brings significant commercial experience complemented by in-depth wine knowledge.
AGWA’s acting chief executive officer Andreas Clark says Jewell is well-known and highly regarded by her peers in the wine trade community.
“The UK remains our largest export market and Laura will be a strong advocate for Australian wine, leading our team in London and driving efforts to maintain our market share and remain competitive. This appointment is fantastic news for Australian wine,” Clark said.
Jewell says she is looking forward to promoting Australian wine is the UK and European markets.
“I’ve dedicated my career to wine and worked across many different parts of the value chain. I’ve always found Australian wine to be of consistently high quality and the diversity of Australia’s 65 wine regions is an incredibly exciting story to tell,” said Jewell.
“I can’t wait to get started and work with Australian wine brands and exporters on a calendar of innovative events and initiatives for local trade and consumers that builds on the solid reputation that Australian wine already has in the UK and European markets.”