Philip Stephenson-Oliver - Wine merchant, influencer, politician and reservist solider

My early years were spent in Langton Green, just beyond Tunbridge Wells, where I attended the Homewood House Prep School. The trajectory of my education took a somewhat winding path due to my parents' tumultuous divorce, leading me through various schools such as Claremont and Heathfield College.

The picturesque landscapes of Sussex became the backdrop to most of my upbringing, I have lived in Lewes, Stonegate, Robertsbridge, and Cross in Hand. Sussex, renowned for its contribution to English sparkling wine, marked a significant chapter where I delved into the world of viticulture, partaking in my first grape harvest at the age of 18.

My academic journey led me to the University of Kent, where I immersed myself in the study of history and politics.

Post-graduation, my ambition to join the regular army as an officer faced a detour due to a medical setback relation to a heart problem, later revealed to be a misdiagnosis. This detour led me to use my knowledge of wine to become a junior sommelier at Pelham House in Lewes and later as a Wine Advisor at Laithwaite's Wines in Theale. This journey ultimately brought me to Maida vale in London where Is till live to this day.

At laithwaites I pursued WSET wine and spirits training, achieving Level 3 with merit. I then moved to become a senior account executive at a small French wine importer called caves de Pierre which I would arguably is one of the best wine importers in the UK. The pandemic-induced furlough prompted me to venture into entrepreneurship, leading to the establishment of my own company,

In 2020, I embarked on a new chapter as a reservist soldier in the British Army. After completing basic training in 2021, I proudly passed out as a serving soldier at the Honourable Artillery Company, the oldest regiment in the British Army. Since then, I've proudly represented the army at prominent public events, including the opening of parliament, the Lord Mayor's Show, and Remembrance Sunday. Recognition for my contributions is imminent with the upcoming Coronation Service Medal.

In the political arena, my involvement with the Westminster North Conservative Association saw me become Association Chairman in 2022—making me one of the youngest chairman in the country.