Bryan Dawes has worked throughout his career in all areas of the Hospitality industry . Originally a Chef, indentured at the Dorchester Hotel in London and subsequently working for many years in hotels in Switzerland. The majority of Brian’s career has been in Hospitality education. As a lecturer he taught hospitality skills both in the kitchen & restaurant, subsequently becoming head of the department at South Cheshire College until retiring in 2008 with 34 years experience. During his teaching career he was first an examiner and then Verifier for City & Guilds and also worked with the Welsh Joint Education Committee.

Bryan was also a consultant in Food and Beverage service skills to the De Vere hotel group for many years. Teaching brought about a deeper interest in wine & spirit education and to gain experience in this field he became Sommelier at Rookery Hall in Cheshire for several years. During this time he became the UK Sommelier of the year in 1983 and subsequently passed the Master Sommelier Diploma in 1985. Since achieving the Master Sommelier qualification Bryan has always been involved with the Court of Master Sommeliers, teaching and examining all levels of the programme from introductory level to Masters. This has involved travelling worldwide to USA, Asia and Europe to conduct courses and examinations, to assist candidates prepare for qualifications by providing tutorial and tasting skills workshops, and developing learning materials used by candidates.

For many years Bryan has been a Director of the Court and is currently the Chair of the Education Committee responsible for developing qualifications and ensuring the levels of education and examination are maintained wherever the qualifications are administered. A member of the Global Master Sommelier Board, set up between the European and American chapters of the Court to oversee the qualifications internationally. Trained with the Consejo Regulador Sherry to become a certified Sherry Educator. Bryan has also been a member of the judging panels for both the Chaine de Rotisseurs Jeune Sommelier competition and the UK Sommelier of the year competition for over 12 years.