Xolani Mancotywa

Xolani Mancotywa’s educational history and academic achievements are;

• Nov 2021 – Present: Masters in Business Administration, Gordon Institute of Business Science (JHB, SA
• Jan 2021 – Oct 2021: Post Graduate Diploma in Business Administration, Gordon Institute of Business Science (JHB, SA)
• November 2019: Certificate – Certified Sake Sommelier, Sake Sommeliers Association (London, UK)
• March 2013: Certificate – Certified Sommelier, Court of Master Sommeliers (London, UK)
• May 2012 – Nov 2012: Diploma in Sales and Marketing Management, Varsity College (Cape Town, SA)
• Jan 2005 – Dec 2007: Bachelor of Commerce – Accounting and Economics, Witwatersrand University (Johannesburg, SA)
• Jan 2000 – Dec 2004: Matric Certificate, Redhill High School (Johannesburg, SA)

Xolani Mancotywa is a qualified sommelier and beverage steward, trained and qualified by the Court of Master Sommeliers and the Sake Sommelier Academy. He has a deep understanding of how food, wine, and other beverages work in harmony. As a qualified chef, Xolani develops experiences that define his relationship between food, beverage, and culture. He has reimagined traditional African cuisine and authentic African fine dining as critical pillars that guide his palate. Xolani is currently enrolled in a Master of Business Administration through the Gordon Institute of Business Science and the Masters of Wine Program. He has a keen interest in redefining and immersing himself in the business of food and beverage with a full appreciation of the engine that is Sales & Marketing, Strategy & Innovation, and design thinking as key levers to unlock commercial growth. Xolani has travelled and worked extensively in exotic locations such as the UAE and the Maldives and aims to ensure that the South African Hospitality Industry positions its uniqueness to the world.

Pernod Ricard – (South Africa) June 2021 – April 2023:

Corporate and Private Clients Manager*In charge of all marketing, sales & relationships for B2B and B2C Prestige Channel

Chenin Noir Consulting – (South Africa) – Sept 2018 – May 2021Group Strategist, Head of Sales, Chief marketer*In charge of all marketing, sales & training-related activities in the food & beverage industry. Strategic insight lead

The Really Great Brands Company FMCG – (South Africa) July 2015 – August 2018

Brand Ambassador & Private Clients Manager, In charge of all sales relationships Corporates & UHNWI

The Sun Siyam – Iru Fushi Resort (Maldives): Nov 2014 – July 2015

Beverage Sales Manager, In charge of all sales and relationships with resort guests

Toko Restaurant & Capital Club (Dubai, UAE): October 2013 – April 2014

Beverage Sales & Training Manage, In charge of all sales and relationships with HNWI guests.

Implemented the beverage training program for all staff.

The Chenin Noir People’s Foundation has been established to support the sommeliers’ community by providing them with various programs and initiatives to gain global exposure and education. The foundation offers scholarships for education and training, opportunities to attend international wine events, and access to mentorship and networking opportunities with experienced professionals in the industry. Xolani Mancotywa’s leadership has played a pivotal role in supporting and cultivating the next generation of sommeliers and wine professionals.

Xolani is an exceptional individual who has made significant contributions to the wine industry. He is not only the Head Sommelier and one of the four owners at Amari Lush, a black-owned MCC, but also one of three owners at Thathu Restaurant.

What sets Xolani apart is his passion for mentoring and developing local sommeliers. For the past three years, he has brought the Court of the Master Sommeliers program to South Africa, providing local sommeliers with access to a globally accredited program without the high costs of travelling to take this course.

Xolani is not just a sommelier, he is a visionary who is committed to driving excellence in the wine industry. He is a leader who inspires others to strive for greatness. Xolani’s dedication and contributions to the industry make him a worthy nominee for any wine industry award.