Meet the Talent

Mike's successful career in the hospitality industry started in the bars and restaurants of Northern England from the young age of 15. Whilst at Leeds University, Mike discovered his passion for mixed drinks and began to build his experience and reputation at two of the city's most popular venues, Smokestack and Skippy's.

In 2012, Mike moved to London to work with award winning bar group, the Drink Factory. Here, Mike developed his understanding of the science of aroma and flavour, developing new recipes and menus in the group's purpose-built R&D facility, alongside working in their bars. Mike worked the bar at the Zetter Townhouse (World's Best New Hotel Bar – TOTC 2012), before moving to 69 Colebrooke Row (Three-time nominated World's Best Bar at TOTC) where he continued his contribution to the bar's reputation as one of the world's leading institutions for innovation. During this time Mike won several Global Cocktail Competitions and regularly delivered talks at major UK and European food and drink events.

In 2015, Mike's expertise in presenting and education led him to Pernod Ricard as Brand Ambassador for Havana Club Rum. Building on his knowledge and connections within the industry, he helped to strengthen and grow the brand, leading to a new challenge to develop the brand strategy and trade education program for the newly acquired Monkey 47 Gin.

His great success in brand building and advocacy development led Mike to an even bigger challenge with the Belvedere Maison in April 2018.

Mike now develops and implements trade advocacy and experiential programs around the world, sharing his knowledge and passion for Polish Vodka to both consumers and industry professionals alike. Mike is also part of the Belvedere New Liquid Development team, assisting in the creation of Belvedere's ambitious product innovation pipeline, most recently working on the formulation of Belvedere 10, the world's first Luxury Vodka, as well as Belvedere Dirty Brew, a luxurious coffee flavoured vodka.