The Institute of Masters of Wine is delighted to announce that Rufus Olins has been appointed as the new IMW Executive Director. 

Rufus started his career as a journalist and editor working for The Sunday Times. He became Managing Director of Lord Heseltine’s Haymarket Brand Media in 2003, then CEO at the World Advertising Research Centre, an international data business for the marketers and academics. 

After heading up Newsworks, the membership body for the UK’s national newspaper brands, he joined the Co-op Group as Chief Membership Officer at a critical time for the business.

On his new appointment Rufus said, “I’m very excited to be joining the Institute of Masters of Wine and building on the excellent work of Penny Richards and the team. I cannot think of a more important time to join such a multi-faceted industry encompassing geography, science, history, climate, fashion, economics and the sheer pleasure of drinking wine. »

“Nothing is a higher priority than maintaining the highest of standards of the MW award, but there are also exciting opportunities ahead for growth and development. I greatly look forward to working with members, students, supporters, the council and the team to develop the IMW’s activities and influence.’’

Adrian Garforth MW, Chairman of the IMW said, “An extensive global search gave us a solid pool of candidates, from both in and out of the wine world, and Rufus was the stand-out candidate in that strong field. He comes with vast expertise, especially with membership organisations, which is very exciting for the IMW. I’m delighted Rufus will be joining the team and I look forward to working with him as we move into the next phase of the IMW’s history.”

Rufus will join the IMW on 28 April 2019. He replaces Penny Richards, who resigned from the IMW in November 2018 to take up a new role in London.