VANCOUVER — Lesley Brown will assume the role of incoming national president of the Canadian Association of Professional Sommeliers (CAPS) for a three-year term.
Brown takes over from past president Mark DeWolf and most recently served as CAPS Canada’s vice-president and was president of CAPS’ British Columbia chapter. A 20-year veteran of the wine and hospitality industry, she is currently the vice-president of Sales and Marketing at Vancouver-based agency, HQ Wine + Spirits.
“We are thrilled that Lesley is assuming the reins as CAPS’ leader,” says DeWolf. “Her unique ability to spearhead a long-term vision while managing the day-to-day challenges of our culturally diverse community will continue CAPS’ growth for years to come.”
“Thanks to the work done under the past leadership, we have a great opportunity now to raise the bar of sommellerie even higher in Canada,” comments Brown. “My mandate is to continue to expand on our pillars of education, communication, professional development, events, competitions, inclusion and diversity in a continued effort to unify our sommeliers from coast to coast and position CAPS Canada as leader in our industry.”