Michael Ratcliffe is a respected figure in local and global wine industries. He was nominated for the USA Wine Star Award for Global Innovator of the Year in 2015 and 2017. Michael is also the founding trustee of the fundraiser Cape Wine Auction, and founder of Rootstock – organisations heavily invested in education. He is a founding partner of the joint US/South African luxury wine venture Vilafonté established in 2002, and in 2018 was elected Chairman of Stellenbosch Wine Routes.
Describe your leadership style.
Leadership is best translated through inspiration and from action. I find my leadership most powerful when I am able to lead from the front.
Your top tip to beat procrastination?
Just do it. The best way to start something is to just start it. Making proactive mistakes is always better than stagnating and making no mistakes at all.
Favourite getaway destination?
Stellenbosch wine country
Who or what inspires you?
I am inspired by great leaders who have challenged convention, defied the status quo and who have risen up against insurmountable challenges.
What is the one thing most people don’t know about you?
I am a qualified Yacht Master through the Royal Yachting Association in the UK and have successfully navigated a number of Atlantic Crossings.
What would you do with an extra hour in your day?
I would spend it with my family.
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