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Siobhan Turner to leave IMW today
Siobhan Turner is leaving the Institute of Masters of Wine today after nine years as executive director of the organisation.
Siobhan Turner joined the IMW in March 2004
Turner, who joined the IMW in March 2004, has had a major impact on the educational body and under her guidance the Institute has enjoyed a 25% increase in members to take the total to 300.
The IMW has also seen the number of students on its demanding educational programme rise by almost 70% during her tenure, with a notable increase among non-UK residents in line with Turner’s aim to internationalise the qualification.
An accountant by training, Turner is also credited for turning around the once ailing finances of the IMW, while also boosting the sense of community among the members, with currently half of all MWs involved in IMW events and educational support – up from 25% when she joined.
“Siobhan’s positive impact on the Institute is tangible to us all, especially to those of us who have had the privilege to see firsthand her tireless dedication to our organisation, our members – the Masters of Wine – and the broader IMW community,” commented Jean-Michel Valette MW, chairman of the IMW.
“She will be leaving the Institute in great shape and with our warmest thanks for her significant accomplishments,” he added.
As previously reported by the drinks business, Turner, who was born and brought up in Canada, is handing over her role to Former BBC journalist Penny Richards.
Turner has spent the last month introducing Richards to the Institute’s activities and affairs, however, due to her current engagements, Richard’s official start is 1 May.
Turner is planning to take a short break from work and then intends to develop a consultancy business specialising in helping small to medium sized businesses in the wine trade.
If 300 members in 9 years is success, what does failure look like? This is hardly an achievement to crow about if you consider the success of the WSET over the last decade and the robust, quality-assured qualifications it offers across the world. IMW has been nothing less than marginalised and has simply entrenched its elitist position.
I hear you, but it just shows you how difficult the Master of Wine title is to get. I have done multiple WSET programmes. They are excellent but nowhere even close to the knowledge that is required for the MW. It is sort of like comparing brain surgery to nursing. But those nurses still know a good deal to make a difference in healthcare.