Sara Rossi

My biggest challenge was finding my next role after working for many years in hospitality. I felt a strong desire to explore new opportunities within the wine industry and challenge myself by doing something different. The transition was not easy. With no previous experience in sales, it was difficult to find a suitable role, and many of the opportunities available offered salaries that made it challenging to live in London. There were moments when I questioned whether I was making the right decision, but I remained determined to pursue a new career path.

Fortunately, I discovered a supportive and welcoming community within the wine trade. I reached out to people with experience in sales, sought advice, and shared that I was looking for a new challenge. Their encouragement and guidance helped me stay focused throughout the process. After eight months of searching, I was offered a Sales Manager position at Roberson Wine, which marked the beginning of a new chapter in my career. The experience taught me the value of perseverance, networking, and being willing to step outside of my comfort zone in pursuit of personal and professional growth.

One person who deserves special mention is Francoise Mathis, who has always been there to support and encourage me. She has been an incredible mentor, offering valuable advice throughout my career as well as in my personal life. I am deeply grateful for her guidance, generosity, and unwavering support over the years. Her belief in me has helped me navigate important decisions and challenges, and I am proud to consider her one of my closest friends.

Amber Gardner is a fantastic personality in the wine world. It has been exciting to follow her latest projects and see her career continue to evolve. I particularly enjoy reading her monthly newsletter, where she shares insights into her new life in Sete, as well as the wines she has been drinking and the food she has been enjoying.

She recently joined a new project (Deux Soeur Export), and I am delighted that it will likely mean seeing her more often in London. Her enthusiasm, curiosity, and ability to connect people through wine make her a real inspiration within the industry.

I would like to nominate Emma Denney, Wine Director at Claridge’s Hotel. Emma is an incredibly hardworking and passionate professional whose dedication to both hospitality and wine is truly inspiring.

She is constantly researching, studying, and expanding her knowledge, often spending her own time visiting vineyards and learning directly from producers. Her commitment to continuous development and excellence is evident in everything she does.