Berry Bros & Rudd names new UK MD
London-based wine and spirits merchant Berry Bros & Rudd has appointed Rob Symington as its new UK managing director.
Symington will join the leadership team in London in September.
Symington said: “I have huge admiration for Berry Bros & Rudd – a family business which combines the best of British heritage with a thoroughly modern and dynamic outlook. I couldn’t be more excited to be joining the team.”
As the new UK managing director, he will be responsible for sales, customer strategy and marketing. He will report directly to Emma Fox, CEO of Berry Bros & Rudd.
Fox commented on the appointment: “I have known Rob for a number of years, having worked together on projects such as our acquisition of Hambledon Wine Estate. Rob is a creative and strategic leader, and he’ll be a fantastic addition to our business.
“This appointment shows our commitment to strengthening our leadership team with exceptional people to help our business grow and to meet our future ambitions.”
Symington joins the company following his most recent role as co-CEO of Portugal-based family business Symington Family Estates (SFE), owners of brands such as Graham’s, Dow’s, and Warre’s Port wines.
In Portugal, he oversaw commercial strategy, sales and marketing, wine tourism, people and culture, and sustainability. Symington will remain on the board of SFE.
The news comes after Jamie Ritchie’s recent appointment as managing director for international and auctions, alongside the merchant’s plans to launch in the US later this year.
In January 2025, Berry Bros & Rudd entered into a redundancy consultation process with 30 members of staff.
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