Martin will take over from current managing director Craig Durham on 3 February.
Durham is departing after spending 10 years at the helm of the family-owned wine importer, having first joined in 2003 following a stint at beer, wine and spirits producer Constellation Brands.
With a wealth of experience in the trade, Martin has spent more than 16 years in senior sales roles across the wine industry.
Most recently, Martin spent seven years as the UK sales director for leading sparkling wine supplier Freixenet Copestick. In this role she successfully built and lead a sales team of 34 people, while growing key customer partnerships and delivering market leading performance.
Prior to joining Freixenet Copestick, Martin worked for more than 12 years at Australian company Treasury Wines Estates in various roles including senior business manager.
Martin’s knowledge an ‘invaluable asset’
Schenk Family CEO Thierry Gaillard, congratulated Martin on her new position and said that the firm was excited to have her in place.
“We’re delighted to welcome Helena as our new MD for the UK, which is a key market for us as a group,” Gaillard said.
“Her sales background and extensive knowledge of our industry will be invaluable assets for the group and we believe her leadership skills make her a perfect fit for the role.”
Gaillard also saved a word for the departing Durham: “I would like to thank Craig our outgoing managing director for his tireless work for the group and dedication to the business over so many years and we wish him all the best for the future.”
Buckingham Schenk is one of the UK’s leading wine importers, working with major supermarkets, on-trade wholesalers, restaurant groups and independent retailers.
Based in Bracknell, Berkshire, the firm has longstanding relationships with wine producers in France, Italy, Spain, Argentina, Chile and New Zealand, among others.
