Craig was the global wine consultant with JW Marriott in Mumbai till 12th of this month and has been a very important person in the Mumbai wine scenario. He contributed a lot for the hotel in terms of wine selection, training and organising wine related events.
Says Dharti Desai, CEO of FWM, 'Craig brings to FineWinesnMore, a foundation of knowledge and experience which is scarce in the wine industry. This coupled with his unbridled enthusiasm for life and vision for all of India embracing the vine will enable us to further consolidate our place in the industry.'
Craig feels that wine industry is still at a nascent stage in India and needs a lot in terms of wine education and awareness. There is a lack of promotional activities for wine consumption in the country. "I believe that Dharti has the right vision and approach for FWM and has done an incredible job in establishing an enviable position in such a short time by building brand equity for its internationally reputed wines. I am looking forward to being part of Finewinesnmore which will allow my creativity to thrive and help bring serious value additions,' Craig informed delWine from Australia from where he is expected to return on Saturday.
Besides Marriott, Craig has worked on projects in Australia with additional experience in China, Seoul and the UK. His background includes technical qualifications in wine sciences, wine marketing and education with other professional qualifications in commercial cookery and hospitality practices. He also has experience in restaurant operations and private wine cellar development and implementation.
While most importers in India have been reeling under the recession in the market, Dharti has been quietly and steadily strengthening her human resources at all levels including the top. Craig's induction into FWM is nothing short of a coup of sorts. |