Buckingham Schenk names new MD

UK wine importer and distributor Buckingham Schenk has promoted sales director Craig Durham to fill its managing director vacancy.

Craig Durham, new MD at Buckingham Schenk

Following the departure of Jon Pepper MW, who starts his new role as director of buying & retail at rival Enotria next month, Durham is due to take the reins at Buckingham Schenk on 1 February.

With a previous background at Constellation Wines and Kraft Foods, Durham joined Buckingham Schenk in 2003 as national accounts manager before becoming sales director in 2008.

Announcing the news, Frank Hooij, director general of international activities at the Schenk Group commented: “Craig has been a key part of the management team at Buckingham for the last eight years, and has been responsible for delivering the company’s strategy to expand into new channels and product groups.”

He highlighted Durham’s “deep understanding of the business and the UK market”, adding: “Craig has an outstanding track record managing his team and working with customers during his time as sales director and we are confident that he will lead the company to more success in the coming years.”

In response, Durham remarked: “This is a very exciting time for Buckingham as we grow into new product areas such as our recently acquired very successful Prosecco facilities Bacio della Luna and continue our drive into the on-trade, while established brands such as Viñalba go from strength to strength.”

Describing himself as “thrilled to be given this opportunity,” he continued: “We have a fantastic team at Buckingham Schenk and we are fortunate to work with some outstanding producers and wines. I am confident I can continue the company’s recent successes and I look forward to the challenges of my new role.”