Stevens Garnier snaps up Forbes

Former UK director of Wines of Argentina, James Forbes, has joined Stevens Garnier as buying and marketing director.

Forbes will take up the post in January 2010 following the retirement of Stevens Garnier founder Alastair Stevens.

Jane Cranston, managing director, said, “We are delighted that James is joining us; his many talents will hugely strengthen the team and we look forward to him playing a key role in taking Stevens Garnier forward into the next decade”.

Forbes is perhaps most widely known for his role at WofA, where he oversaw a significant rise in the profile and sales of Argentine wine. He also previously held the position of senior buyer at the UK high street chain Oddbins.

“This blend of heavyweight commercial knowledge, allied to a creative and strategic marketing mind is going to be invaluable as we seek to strengthen our position in the market”, Cranston said.

Forbes added: “I’m thrilled to be joining Stevens Garnier. It’s an impressively strong set-up and I very much look forward to helping the company achieve its future ambitions”.

Alan Lodge, 04.11.2009