Mark Donaldson

A dedicated and energetic beverage alcohol industry professional with over twenty years of experience working with the trade’s leading brands. Proven ability to manage all aspects of communications, promotions and public relations, over a wide variety of platforms. A persuasive, yet firm salesperson who prefers to cultivate positive and constructive relationships with clients. Natural team player, who is inclusive, supportive and empathetic. Extensive experience with brand development, project management and ‘hands-on’ implementation. Wine, spirits and beer educator with ten years of teaching experience at George Brown College. Proven ability to develop and maintain excellent relationships with key media, LCBO and trade contacts.

At Churchill Cellars, managed internal and external communications with staff, media, trade and suppliers. Managed Promotions and Public Relations department. Developed, wrote and promoted company’s external newsletter, The Imbiber’s Report, deployed to coincide with LCBO Vintages release. Increased subscription database to nearly 5,000 readers.

Planned, organized and executed annual Portfolio Tasting of products, working with suppliers, venues, food service providers and staff. Developed and maintained brand and corporate presence on social media platforms by producing content and interacting with suppliers, media, influencers, trade and others. Curated company’s website to reflect current product information and promotions. Organized and delivered public trade show participation and private wine events, scouting locations while securing new venues, including the AGO.

At Stem wine group, developed and implemented marketing strategies for consumer directed content and communication activities to engage customers and increase sales. Increased the company’s social media, website and external communication, creatively developed content and maintained brand and corporate presence on various platforms by interacting with suppliers, media, influencers, trade and others.

At George Brown College, taught all levels of the College’s Wine Appreciation Courses including introduction to wine, advanced wine and specialized workshops. Taught sensory evaluation and wine and food matching.

Ryerson Polytechnic Institute, Bachelor of Applied Arts, Fine Art Photography 1988

Wine and Spirit Education Trust, Higher Certificate with Distinction 1996

Dietary Aide Diploma, Georgian College 2022