The Whisky Ambassador delivers first-class whisky training all over the world. We are the world’s first BIIAB and CPD Standards accredited whisky training programme.
Our journey began in 2012 when founder Jo Graham, an HR consultant in the licensed trade, was helping out in a bar run by her partner. A group of French tourists entered, looking to try some whisky. As the serving bartender reached for the go-to, speedrail blend, Jo suggested, in stilted high-school French, that the visitors try a single malt. Captivated by her knowledge and keen to learn more, the group stayed in the bar and sampled one of each of the single malts on the back bar throughout their visit.
The evening was a triumph for all; the tourists, and Jo’s colleague, learned about the production and flavour profiles of single malt Scotch whisky, and the bar profited by keeping the customers on the premises for longer and the upsell to premium, top shelf brands.
The following day, Jo began searching for a whisky training course to upskill the bar staff. With no success, and with the help of fellow industry experts, Jo decided to write her own. The course got accredited and the training programme was sold to pubs, whisky bars and premium hotels. Word spread, and soon Jo was receiving whisky training requests from all over the world. And so, The Whisky Ambassador was born.
Over the years, we have grown organically and now deliver our premium whisky training courses in over 30 countries around the world. Many graduates of the course go on to become trainers themselves; a huge tribute to how enjoyable the process is.
We’ve been making whisky connoisseurs for over a decade. Our mission is to enhance whisky knowledge and skills, one bar at a time. In 2017, our commitment to the industry was recognised when we won Best Whisky Training Program, Scotland at the UK Business Whisky Awards.
Slainte!
Meet our knowledgeable and valued team
Much like making whisky, creating standout training programmes is an artform. It’s a team effort.
Our dedicated team at The Whisky Ambassador have pride and passion in providing the very best whisky training to industry professionals all over the world. They aren’t just employees; they are experts in their field.
Jo Graham - Managing Director
“No two days are the same. It’s one of the reasons I love this business.”
Jo has worked in the drinks industry for over fifteen years, and her love for the industry and passion to teach others more about the world of spirits drove her to bring The Whisky Ambassador to life in 2011. From brain-storming, writing and delivering new training programmes, to organising events and liaising with global brands, Jo loves how much each day differs at The Whisky Ambassador HQ. When she’s not working, our Jo enjoys walking her dogs in the countryside before putting her feet up with a delicious Whisky Sour.
Ajay Bhardwaj - Director of Operations, North America
“To peat, or not to peat? That is the question! Why choose?!”
With over 10 years of experience under his belt, delivering independent, inclusive, accredited whisky education to those who are starting their journey in the spirits industry is where our Ajays’ passion lies. He has a soft spot for a complex, peated dram and, when he’s not in the classroom connecting with the whisky community, loves nothing more than spending time with his family.
Bob Wenting - Operations Director, Europe
“The best dram is any dram of good whisky enjoyed together in good company.”
When it comes to liquid gold, our Bob really knows what he’s talking about! He’s worked in the spirits industry for over 20 years, and is proud to be part of the growing team at The Whisky Ambassador. Bob gets a real buzz from teaching; developing new training programmes with the team is one of his favourite aspects of the job. A true whisky aficionado, when he isn’t working, Bob likes to tour whisky festivals with friends.
David Graham - Admin and Business Development Manager
“My favourite part of the job? Speaking to people from all over the world.”
Slinging drinks as a bartender for 8 years has given our David excellent knowledge of all things spirits. His whisky know-how allowed him to be part of the team who chose The Whisky Ambassador 1st Release, which is now his favourite dram. Liaising with The Whisky Ambassadors tutors to create knockout training programmes is one of his favourite aspects of the job. David loves a good bit of banter and would love to sit down for a dram with Kevin Bridges.
