The Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW) has appointed Sarah Harrison as its new executive director. 

Harrison will work alongside the IMW council to steer the Institute’s global strategy, stakeholder relations and operations. 

Prior to this appointment, Harrison served as IMW head of operations and has acted as interim executive director since June this year. 

The IMW said that Harrison brings a unique understanding of the Institute and its stakeholders, having previously overseen all components of the Master of Wine study programme and exam. 

Before her position at the IMW, the new executive director worked in a series of leadership roles across membership and educational sectors. She was head of learning design and accreditation at the Chartered College of Teaching and associate director, headship of programmes at the Ambition Institute. 

IMW chair Roderick Smith, said: “It is with very great pleasure and pride that the Institute of Masters of Wine has appointed Sarah Harrison as our next executive director. Sarah has done an excellent job as interim executive director, and we are thrilled to be able to appoint her permanently to the role. I look forward to working together further.” 

Harrison added: “I am truly honoured to have been appointed executive director of the Institute of Masters of Wine, and look forward to working closely with our members, supporters, executive team and the wider industry to lead the IMW to continued success. 

“At a time of significant challenge for the wine trade, I believe that the IMW’s global community of exceptional wine professionals—and its focus on excellence, interaction and learning—is more important than ever.”