Richard Siddle

Fiona Beckett announced earlier in the summer she was giving up her weekly Saturday slot as wine and drinks writer on The Guardian so it feels appropriate to spend this Saturday talking to her about her new role in the intriguing new position as the “Wine Writer in Residence” at the Pilgrm hotel in Paddington , London. What does that title actually mean and does she get to stay at the hotel? She explains why she is so excited about the new role and looks back on her time at The Guardian and what it means today to be a successful newspaper drinks columnist.

“I am trying to create a place that is enjoyable to work in and nurtures our shared passion. The salaries aren’t life changing, so I want to offer something that’s a joy to be a part of.” That’s the leadership strategy of Cecily Chappel, chief executive of Chelsea Vintners, who shares her story into wine and what she has learnt from her peers along the way to manage a business in her own style.