Driving key brand growth initiatives across the wine industry, Christel J. Gaillard brings a seasoned perspective to sales, marketing, and international market development on a global stage. Her career spans over two decades and includes progressive leadership roles that showcase her expertise in strategic brand building, distributor relations, and market expansion. As a brand ambassador for Quinta do Paral, she collaborates closely with the local distributor in Michigan, identifying opportunities to expand import and distribution efforts beyond the region. Her work reflects a dedication to strengthening the connection between wineries and consumers while promoting wines rooted in authenticity and craftsmanship.
Ms. Gaillard’s educational background has been instrumental to her success across the wine and business sectors. She earned a Master of Business Administration from KEDGE Business School in France, providing her with a strong foundation in international business operations and strategic management. She later completed the Wine & Spirit Education Trust Level 3 Award in Wines and Spirits and holds a Wine & Spirit Education Trust Diploma in Wines, a globally respected certification that underscores her technical mastery. In addition to these achievements, she is credentialed as a certified wine specialist and a certified Spanish wine educator.
Alongside her position at Quinta do Paral, Ms. Gaillard works as a marketing and sales consultant with The Grape Trotter LLC. She provides strategic support to clients seeking to expand brand visibility and strengthen market performance. Her guidance draws on her extensive experience in brand positioning, market evaluation, and relationship development within the wine sector. Through this consulting practice, she helps producers and organizations refine their strategies and engage more effectively with distributors, retailers and consumers.
Before assuming her recent roles, Ms. Gaillard worked as national sales and brand manager at Kindred Vines Import Co. She oversaw portfolio growth and cultivated relationships with key accounts across the United States. Her leadership emphasized innovative sales approaches and a strong commitment to team mentorship. During her tenure, she contributed to the expansion of the company’s offerings and helped position wines for competitive success in a crowded marketplace.
Ms. Gaillard previously worked as U.S. sales manager for Les Vignobles Foncalieu, where she played a pivotal role in enhancing the presence of French wines in the American market. Her responsibilities included managing national accounts and designing targeted marketing strategies that supported the visibility and positioning of the company’s brands. She also established strong working partnerships with distributors and retailers, leveraging her in-depth understanding of both the French and U.S. markets.
Ms. Gaillard’s earlier experience at Winebow included roles as territory manager and district manager. During this period, consistently demonstrated her ability to lead teams, execute complex promotional campaigns, and drive sales growth across multiple states. She was also responsible for developing training programs, supporting portfolio expansion, and ensuring strategic alignment between suppliers and regional sales teams.
One of Ms. Gaillard’s most significant professional milestones was completing the Wine & Spirit Education Trust Diploma in Wines, a rigorous program she pursued while managing a full-time workload. This credential strengthened her technical expertise and reinforced her commitment to continuous learning within the wine industry. Her professional engagement extends to organizations such as the Wine & Spirit Education Trust alumni community, Women of the Vine & Spirits and Family Guild. These affiliations reflect her dedication to mentorship, networking, and advancing women within the industry.
Ms. Gaillard believes deeply in the value of dedication and remains driven by a desire to support producers who prioritize authenticity and craftsmanship. Originally from France, she has lived in the United States for more than two decades. Her international background informs her understanding of diverse wine markets, and she is fluent in German and conversant in Spanish, skills she developed while living and working abroad.
Beyond her professional commitments, Ms. Gaillard enjoys running, biking, cooking and baking. She values balance and approaches wellness with the same intentionality she brings to her career. Looking ahead, she plans to support emerging wineries with artisan-focused approaches and help them navigate the complexities of the United States market. Her goal is to promote wines defined by integrity while advocating for thoughtful consumption practices.