A UK-headquartered firm investing in and collecting fine wines has filled a new senior role as it continues its drive for international growth.

Richmond-based Cult Wines, which saw profits grow 105 per cent last year, has appointed Lukasz Kolodziejczyk as head of fine wine, a newly-created position.

Kolodziejczyk will provide consultancy services to the firm's global private client base, advising on home wine cellars, while evaluating and appraising existing collections. He will also arrange events and help to boost on-trade sales.

Kolodziejczyk joins with over a decade's experience in the hospitality industry. He spent seven years at world-renowned restaurant The Fat Duck before moving on to Pollen Street Social, another Michelin starred restaurant, as head sommelier.

The hire comes amid Cult Wine's expansion into Asia, with a new office set to open in Hong Kong this year. 

“The value add for our private clients is huge and we’re certain he will make a tremendous impact, proving to be a major asset to the company,” says Tom Gearing, managing director, Cult Wines.

Cult Wines, which currently has assets under administration of £30 million ($42 million), is aiming for annual sales of around £50 million by 2020. 

Amid a backdrop of global equity market volatility, 2015 was a rewarding year for anyone investing in fine wine, according to the Knight Frank Fine Wine Icons Index, which was up 5 per cent. Many of the investment-grade Bordeaux wines have now started to recover from the slump induced by the sharp drop in Chinese demand, according to Nick Martin of Wine Owners, which compiles the index.