Steenkamp brings a rich heritage and knowledge of wine to Vinimark. Growing up in the Stellenbosch winelands as the fourth generation on his family’s wine estate, Groenland, he is the owner of the adjoining farm, Friesland. A lawyer by trade, Steenkamp earned his master’s degree in International Trade Law at the University of Stellenbosch and is a member and past chairman of the Institute of Cape Wine Masters.

With more than two decades of worldwide experience in the wine industry – including roles as Global Sales and Marketing Director at KWV and International Business Manager at Distell Ltd in London – Steenkamp has a deep understanding of the wine market across continents.

‘Growing up on a wine farm, wine has always been a love of mine, and to commercialise that passion and present South Africa’s top brands to a wide ranging audience is a big drive,’ said Steenkamp on his new role. ‘Vinimark has a great name as premium brand builder and is a modern, ambitious company which makes for an excellent fit.’

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Steenkamp, who will be based in Barbados, will support an experienced and capable exports team, contributing demonstrable leadership, strategic vision and commercial acumen. He will be an instrumental figure in strengthening relationships with Vinimark’s partners, and growing Vinimark’s market presence and the reputation of South African wine around the world.

Steenkamp is excited about tapping into Vinimark’s further potential: ‘Looking at the South African competitive landscape, made up of a few larger corporates – some with limited wine focus – cooperatives and family wineries, Vinimark is undoubtedly the best-placed to drive our country’s premium branded category off a very strong domestic base.

‘Vinimark understands wine and has the scale and ambition to make a difference for our category. I look forward to assisting our sales and marketing team in building brands in a commoditised wine environment,’ he said.

With his inspired strategic vision, an entrepreneurial spirit and a deep passion for wine and travel, Steenkamp is sure to spark growth and innovation at Vinimark.