Newly Created Role Lays Groundwork for the Future
NEW YORK (April 1, 2024) – Banfi, a leading Italian wine producer and importer of its family-owned fine wines, announces Jenn Engel as Chief Commercial and Strategy Officer, Banfi Vintners. The expansion of the executive team comes less than five years after Banfi streamlined its portfolio, prioritizing its proprietary labels of affordable luxury wines.
Engel returns to Banfi with decades of industry leadership and experience. During her previous tenure from 2008 to 2015, she held various roles, including National Business Manager of Fine Wines. Following her time at Banfi, Engel served as the VP of Sales and a member of the Board of Directors at Santa Margherita USA. Most recently, she spent four years at the Republic National Distributing Company, where she became the first female Chief Customer and Commercial Officer in the beverage alcohol wholesale distribution industry. Engel also served on the board for the WSWA’s Women’s Leadership Council and received the WSWA Movers and Shakers Award in 2023, further solidifying herself as a leader in the wine and spirits space.
“While my passion is for the fine wine business, returning to the company is a testament to Banfi’s commitment to the premium category,” Engel reflects “I’m excited to collaborate with the executive team and contribute to Banfi’s ongoing success. Together, we will continue to elevate Banfi’s legacy.”
In her new role, Engel will oversee Banfi Vintners Sales and Marketing, distributor relations, and contribute to shaping the strategic trajectory of the portfolio. Working closely with CEO & family proprietor Cristina Mariani-May and the executive team, Engel will play a pivotal role in new growth opportunities for the business as well as advancing the representation of female executives within the company.
“As a family-owned luxury wine business for 105 years, we are thrilled to welcome Jenn back,” said Mariani-May. “This leadership role will be instrumental in preparing Banfi for its next steps. Together, we will drive Banfi’s global success.”
An active member of the Dedman College of Hospitality Dean’s Council at Florida State University, Engel also brings numerous educational accolades to Banfi, including her recent Graduate Certificate in Entrepreneurship & Innovation from Harvard University in 2023. Other notable accomplishments include her Sommelier Certification from the Guild of Sommeliers, and Specialist of Wine designation from the Society of Wine Educators.
About Banfi
Founded 1919 in New York City, Banfi continues to be solely owned by the Mariani family with Cristina Mariani-May as proprietor and CEO. The portfolio’s jewel is the award-winning Castello Banfi vineyard estate in Montalcino, Tuscany. The prestigious wine portfolio, along with the Castello Banfi Il Borgo luxury hotel, Michelin-starred dining, and extensive hospitality offers the ultimate authentic Tuscan experience. The Mariani family is also owner of US Pacific Northwest based Pacific Rim & Company with projects from premiere AVAs across Washington state and the acclaimed Willamette Valley, Oregon. The Banfi portfolio also includes ownership interest in leading organic brand Natura wines, produced by Emiliana Organic Vineyards, Chile.
