Meet The Team

The London Competitions is an international competition organized by Beverage Trade Network. Meet our London Competitions team.

Sid Patel

Sid Patel is a dynamic entrepreneur and the CEO of Beverage Trade Network (BTN), a global platform dedicated to connecting beverage industry professionals. With a mission to simplify and enhance trade in the wine, spirits, and beer sectors, Sid has been instrumental in creating globally recognized events like the London Competitions, USA Trade Tasting, and the International Bulk Wine & Spirits Show. His deep understanding of market trends, coupled with a passion for fostering collaboration and education, has made him a leading voice in the beverage industry. Through BTN, Sid continues to empower brands, importers, distributors, and retailers to achieve greater success in an ever-evolving marketplace.

Mauricio Perez

Mauricio Perez is the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Beverage Trade Network (BTN), where he drives the digital innovation and technological strategy for one of the beverage industry's leading global platforms. With a strong background in software development and systems architecture, Mauricio has been pivotal in creating seamless, user-friendly solutions that connect wineries, breweries, distilleries, and trade professionals worldwide. His expertise ensures BTN's online tools, events platforms, and industry resources remain cutting-edge, enabling businesses to thrive in a competitive landscape. Mauricio’s leadership in tech not only enhances BTN’s capabilities but also empowers beverage brands to expand their reach and efficiency.

Ankita Okate

Ankita Okate, a Stanford MBA graduate from California, serves as the Chief Growth Officer (CGO) and Events Head at Beverage Trade Network (BTN), where she leads the company’s global expansion and its portfolio of renowned events. Leveraging her business acumen and innovative approach, Ankita has been instrumental in elevating BTN’s flagship initiatives such as the London Wine Competition, USA Trade Tasting, and International Bulk Wine & Spirits Show. Her expertise in event management and strategic growth has solidified BTN’s position as a key connector in the global beverage industry. With a passion for fostering collaboration and creating impactful networking opportunities, Ankita continues to drive BTN’s mission of empowering beverage professionals worldwide.

Malvika Patel

Malvika Patel is the Chief Editor at Beverage Trade Network (BTN), where she oversees the creation and curation of insightful content for the global beverage industry. With a keen eye for storytelling and a deep understanding of industry dynamics, Malvika leads the editorial direction for BTN's publications, including articles, interviews, and educational resources tailored for wine, spirits, and beer professionals. Her dedication to delivering high-quality content ensures that BTN remains a trusted source of knowledge and inspiration for producers, distributors, and trade professionals worldwide. Through her work, Malvika continues to highlight industry trends, share success stories, and foster meaningful connections across the beverage community.

Adriana Valentini

Adriana Valentini, a seasoned wine professional with over 15 years of global experience, brings her expertise to the London Competitions as a valued team member. Born in Milan, she has worked in top-tier roles, including Head Sommelier at the two-Michelin-starred Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia and Head of Beverage at London’s prestigious Oxford and Cambridge Club. Currently, she is the Group Wine Manager for Triple Sea Food, overseeing wine programs for three renowned restaurants in Milan. Fluent in multiple languages and a WSET Diploma student, Adriana combines technical expertise with an intuitive approach to understanding guests' preferences, curating exceptional wine experiences. Her dedication to continuous learning and her passion for wine make her an invaluable contributor to the competitions’ mission of celebrating excellence.

Chiara Sieni

Chiara Sieni, DipWSET, is a valued team member of the London Competitions, serving as a ambassador. Originally from Florence, Chiara has spent the past 13 years in London, immersing herself in the world of wine. She holds prestigious credentials, including the WSET Diploma, French Wine Scholar, and Italian Wine Scholar, earned through the West London Wine School, where she became a WSET alumni.

Chiara’s career is rich with experience, from preparing wines for the renowned Decanter Awards to freelancing with Dolce Vita, an Italian wine distributor. Currently working with Amathus Drinks, she is pursuing her passion for wine education. As a Valpolicella Wine Specialist and Langhe Wines Ambassador, Chiara brings exceptional expertise and a deep love for Italian wines to her role, making her an integral part of the London Competitions team. Her dedication to excellence in wine evaluation helps uphold the high standards of these globally recognized competitions.

Wine

Terence Smith, Competition Account Manager +442045199418, terence@londonwinecompetition.com (Japan, Luxemborg, Poland, Germany, Slovenia, Romania, Chile, Italy, USA)

Shane Walker, Competition Account Manager +442081247647, shane@londonwinecompetition.com (Australia, UK, Austria)

Hazel Brown, Competition Account Manager +442045184380, hazel@londonwinecompetition.com (New Zealand, Ukraine, Slovakia, Spain, Hungary, Georgia)

Katie Walker, Competition Account Manager +442081244940, katie@londonwinecompetition.com (Italy, Greece, South Africa)

Austin Jacob, Head of Sales +442032901678, austin@londonwinecompetition.com (Argentina, Portugal, France and Rest of the world)

Spirits

Terence Smith, Competition Account Manager +442045199418, terence@londonwinecompetition.com (Japan, Luxemborg, Poland, Slovenia, Romania, Chile, Italy, USA, Austria, Germany)

Shane Walker, Competition Account Manager +442081247647, shane@londonwinecompetition.com (Australia, UK, Ireland)

Hazel Brown, Competition Account Manager +442045184380, hazel@londonwinecompetition.com (New Zealand, Spain, Belgium, Netherlands, Mexico, Georgia)

Katie Walker, Competition Account Manager +442081244940, katie@londonwinecompetition.com (Italy, Asia, India, Brazil, South Africa)

Austin Jacob, Head of Sales +442032901678, austin@londonwinecompetition.com (Argentina, Portugal, France, Croatia, Serbia, Singapore and Rest of the World)