British restaurateur and events caterer, Searcys as it firms up its exciting calendar of ticketed events for 2023, announces the appointment of Martin Dibben in a new role as Head of Champagne.
Having previously worked with the group on the events side of the business for five years, Martin will be responsible for the wine lists across Searcys’ portfolio whilst leading on Champagne experiences and masterclasses.
With a hospitality career spanning 30 years, Martin started in the Royal Household in the food department and then joined Prue Leith of 'Bake Off' fame for nine years, where he was promoted to Operations Director.
In 1999, Martin opened his restaurant Dibbens in Smithfield Market, with Zagat describing it as one of the best restaurants in the city and has since held the position of Operations Director at key venues across the capital, looking after some of London’s most iconic venues, including the Barbican, The Serpentine Gallery and the Historic Royal Palaces.
Having graduated from L'Academie du Champagne in 2000, Dibben became its chairman in 2016. More recently, he was appointed Consul of the South of England for the Ordre des Coteaux de Champagne - the official guild representing the Champagne region.
Martin shared, “I am thrilled with my new role which allows me to indulge my greatest passion – Champagne! Last year’s 175th anniversary provided so many opportunities from the launch of the Searcys Champagne Coupé at Battersea Power Station to the refurbishment of the Searcys Champagne Bar at St Pancras.
'One of my key focusses will be events for 2023, including Searcys series of Champagne-paired dinners which will marry interesting vintages with the best of British cuisine at our beautiful venues from the Gherkin, St Pancras to and 116 Pall Mall to The Pump Room at Bath.”
Paul Jackson, Managing Director, remarked, “I am delighted to have Martin in this new role leading our Champagne and wine knowledge, and also presiding over a jam-packed calendar of champagne events. As we continue to finesse our hospitality, Martin will play a pivotal part in helping us deliver exceptional wines and experiences.”