His appointment follows an ‘extensive’ recruitment process carried out by the board of retailer Majestic Wine. He took the group out of administration earlier this year.​​

Giles joined Vagabond early last year and has served as the group’s acting managing director since August this year.

Her CV includes senior roles at Wagamama, Hilton Hotels and Megan’s Restaurants.

In his expanded role, Giles will have overall responsibility for implementing the London-based group’s growth strategy, including expanding its wine bar portfolio across the UK, implementing the new CRM program and investing in recruitment, learning and development. From colleagues trained by the Foundation for Wine and Spirits Education (WSET).

Majestic took Vagabond out of administration in April, securing the future of nine wine bars and 171 jobs.

The wine retailer and wholesaler said it plans to invest in the long-term future of the Vagabond business, including opening new wine bars and growing the brand’s customer base.

“I am delighted to take on the role of managing director at Vagabond at an incredibly exciting point in the brand’s history. I have been a big fan of Vagabond’s unique offering long before I join the team in 2023, so the opportunity to lead the business is one I can’t wait to get started on,” says Giles.

“We have passionate and knowledgeable teams, great momentum and ambitious growth plans; All of this prepares us for a very bright future as part of the Majestic group. “I look forward to working with the leadership team at Vagabond and the Majestic Board of Directors to realize the next phase of Vagabond’s growth story.”