Miguel Sayago

Wine sales professional and certified international sommelier with over 15 years of cross border experience in hospitality, events, brand representation, and strategic account management. Specialized in European, American & South American wines and spirits with a proven ability to drive revenue through immersive customer experiences, value-based selling, and promotional events. Adept in cultivating key B2B relationships across on and off-premises, and luxury hotel sectors. Skilled in bilingual storytelling, conflict resolution, and high-level diplomacy to support brand growth and client retention.

The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas Sommelier 2004 - PRESENT

Curate and manage luxury wine lists featuring International portfolios, conduct food and wine pairings for upscale clientele. Lead internal staff training and wine education programs. Coordinate vendor relationships and execute seasonal tasting events. 

Westin Downtown Dallas Guest Event Expert 2023–PRESENT 

 Liaise with clients to create memorable branded events, from wine pairings to corporate banquets. Interpret BEOs to manage timing, staffing, and F&B strategy. Ensure high-end hospitality aligned with brand image and guest expectations. 

Total Wine & More, Dallas Wine Seller & Event Planner Head Sommelier 2022–2024 

Designed and led educational wine programs to elevate team performance and customer engagement. Coordinated corporate and private wine events promoting European SKUs. Developed targeted sales strategies and tracked KPI growth via CRM systems. 

Bianchi Winery – Buenos Aires, Argentina 2017–2021 Key Account Manager 

Managed relationships with hotels, restaurants, and retailers to expand national account sales. Oversaw contracts, pricing strategy, promotional calendars, and brand activations. Boosted European wine placement through customer education and strategic merchandising. 

PDVSA – Caracas & Buenos Aires Communications & Strategic Advisor 2008 - 2016 Developed international communication campaigns and managed diplomatic liaison efforts. And led cross-cultural negotiations aligned with institutional objectives.

Embassy of Venezuela to EU & Belgium Diplomatic Staff – Energy Geopolitics 2006 - 2008 Developed international communication campaigns and managed diplomatic liaison efforts. And led cross-cultural negotiations aligned with institutional objectives.

International Sommelier Certification – Inter Wine & Dine, Brussels / Argentina Sommelier School. and Barcelona University. 

Specialization in oil & Gas Negotiation Agreement University of Buenos Aires / Argentina 

Specialization in International Law & Politics – Central University of Venezuela 

Degree in Political & Administrative Studies – Central University of Venezuela