Hirshfeld will join Berry Bros in January having worked at Direct Wines as wine director for the last five years.

In her role as buying director, Hirshfeld will oversee all areas of the Berry Bros. & Rudd group of companies, including Fields Morris & Verdin. She will take overall responsibility for all buying and supplier management decisions with the exception of Fine Wine buying, which will continue to be led by Max Lalondrelle. Mark Pardoe MW will continue in his current role working with Hirshfeld and the team as wine director.

Berry Bros. & Rudd chief executive Dan Jago said: “We are thrilled Abi is joining us. She brings with her a wealth of buying experience from her years in the trade.

“Berry Bros. & Rudd has a highly experienced team of buyers and under Abi’s direction we look forward to being able to develop and grow the industry-leading wine range with which we provide our customers.”

Hirshfeld added: "I am very excited to have the opportunity to join Britain's oldest wine and spirit merchant and to work with their incredible range of wines. I am really looking forward to working with the very talented Buying team and can't wait to get started in January."