Wine and spirits merchant Berry Bros. & Rudd has announced Jamie Ritchie as MD of international and auctions. 

In the newly created role, Ritchie will lead the business in both Asia and the US, reporting directly to CEO Emma Fox. 

Ritchie’s appointment follows news that the company will launch in the US this autumn. 

Berry Bros. & Rudd said that the emerging role reflects its global ambitions. As such, Ritchie will be based in Washington DC. 

Prior to joining the company, Ritchie held the position of worldwide chairman of Sotheby’s Wine & Spirits and, more recently, chief operating officer of BlockBar. 

Emma Fox, CEO of Berry Bros. & Rudd, said: “Jamie is a terrific and strategic addition to our leadership team, and this appointment shows our ambitious plans for auctions and our international growth.”

Ritchie added: “I have admired Berry Bros. & Rudd since I first joined the wine business. The combination of tradition and innovation, along with their commitment to excellence, is why they are Britain’s oldest and most respected wine and spirits merchant. I am thrilled to be joining the team at such an exciting time of growth and opportunity.”