Chris Ellis founded Bijou Wine in 2013 after twenty-five years in the wine industry. Previously he has worked as Export Director for a large French wine producer and was a founder shareholder of Western Wines. He has also consulted to a number of vineyards, wine producers, distributors and retailers. Chris was at the forefront of the retail wine revolution and has been heavily involved in both production and sales and marketing. He created, sourced and developed brands such as Kumala and Isla Negra and was the first person to bring in brands such as Cono Sur to the European Market.

English by birth, Edward was brought up in the South of France from the age of nine. After completing his French Baccalaureate he returned to the UK to study Management and Spanish at the University of Leeds, the highlight of which was spending a year working in the export division of a Spanish winery in Madrid.  Edward’s trustworthy personality allied with his interpersonal and communication skills continuously help him build strong cross-cultural relationships. He passed WSET Level 3 with Merit and will shortly complete the Diploma course.

Emily has over a decade of experience in marketing and brand development within agencies, as a consultant and in-house.

She has previously planned and executed the marketing strategy for a new global skin clinic, curated art galleries and worked as an art dealer internationally, and has consulted on marketing and culture for brands such as MTV, Post Office, Casio and Kit Heath. Emily enjoys photography and has shot with brands such as DeBeers, Lofbergs and Charity Bank. She is training for her WSET and, when not working, enjoys walks with her miniature dachshund, Mayer (a nod to legendary guitarist, John).

Hélène was born and raised in Belgium where she graduated as a bio engineer specializing in Agronomy. To pursue her passion for wine she has worked in countries such as Italy, France, and Croatia to research sustainability practices in the wine sector and to gain practical experience. Her additional Master’s in International Food and Beverage management at the business school of ESCP in Turin and Paris and her previous experience as business manager gave her in-depth knowledge of the commercial aspects of the wine market. Hélène has completed her WSET diploma.

Lecia brings a global outlook to wine, shaped by her studies at Burgundy School of Business and hands-on experience at a Saint-Émilion Grand Cru estate. With a WSET Level 3 and four years in the industry, she bridges Eastern and Western wine cultures with ease.

From understanding Burgundy’s terroirs to navigating Asian market trends, Lecia combines technical expertise with cultural insight. Fluent in English, French, and Chinese, she’s skilled at building international partnerships and driving growth through smart distribution strategies and client development.

Born and raised in Milan, Marco developed a passion for wine alongside his studies in International Management. After graduating from university, he moved to Munich and joined Bijou where he works as an Account Manager for Western Europe.

Fluent in five languages, Marco is currently working toward his WSET Level 3 diploma to deepen his expertise in wine. Outside of work, he’s an avid tennis fan, whether on the court playing or watching matches on TV. When he’s not focused on tennis, he enjoys hiking and cooking.

Andrew holds a WSET Level 3 certification, bringing both expertise and enthusiasm to his role.

With over a decade of experience working in the wine industry, Andrew has worked across restaurants, wine bars, vineyards and wineries all over the world. Gaining a well-rounded perspective from grape to glass. As well as travelling and drinking wine, Andrew enjoys surfing, cycling and tennis.

Born in Hong Kong and raised between Singapore and London, Minna has always had a passion for food and drink, shaped by her exposure to diverse culinary cultures. She brings four years of experience in PR and marketing, with a focus on crafting culturally relevant campaigns and brand storytelling across hospitality, food, and premium drinks – with a particular interest in wine.

She has worked with leading brands including Champagne Laurent-Perrier, Tequila PATRÓN, and the William Grant & Sons portfolio. Now at Bijou as Marketing Manager, Minna is focused on growing the brand’s presence in the UK and international markets, championing its story, sustainability and craftsmanship.

Outside of work, she is studying for her WSET qualification and enjoys Pilates, cooking, and exploring London’s vibrant wine and restaurant scene.