Global rum ambassador is keynote speaker at University business event

One of the world’s most influential people in the world drinks industry is the guest speaker at the next Gloucestershire Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Business networking event at University of Gloucestershire.

Global rum ambassador Ian Burrell, who has conducted masterclasses and seminars around the world, will share his experiences in a keynote presentation at the University’s Oxstalls Campus on Thursday, 20 October between 10am and 12noon. Booking for the free event is now open.

In 2007, Ian founded the first international rum festival, The UK RumFest, which inspired many more in cities across the globe, including in Miami, Berlin, Paris, Rome, Madrid, Prague and Hong Kong.

In 2014, the former professional basketball player organised the world’s largest rum tasting event; he was named Brand Ambassador of the Year at the 2018 Spirited Awards; and he was named the 10^th most influential person in the world drinks industry in the 2020 Bar World’s Top 100.

Clare Peterson, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Manager at the University, said: “Working in partnership with Rupert Walters at The Jigsaw Cic, we’re thrilled to be hosting Ian Burrell as our keynote speaker, at our next Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Business networking event.

“Ian’s significant achievements as a global rum ambassador speak for themselves, from his award successes to breaking world records, and launching the world’s first rum festival to his appearances on TV.

“We’re absolutely delighted that he has agreed to share his expertise, life experiences and insights into how he has become one of the world’s most high-profile names in the world drinks industry with our guests on 20 October.”

Gloucestershire Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic business networking events are opportunities to connect with business owners, entrepreneurs and organisational leads and develop stronger Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic representation in Gloucestershire.