ROSTREVOR-born Jim Clerkin, who has more than 30 years of experience in the wine and spirits industry and works with iconic brands like Dom Perignon, Hennessy, Moet & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, has been honoured with a special diaspora award.
Clerkin (65), who is widely regarded as one of the north's most successful overseas businessmen, received the inaugural Spirit of Diaspora Award from Northern Irish Connections ahead of the Belfast International Homecoming conference.
Under his direction and leadership, many liquor brands in both the US and international markets have gained prominence with leading market share positions and greatly increased profitability.
He has worked for a number of the most prestigious and successful companies in the wine and spirits industry, starting his career in Ireland with Guinness before going on to hold senior positions in world business organisations including Grand Metropolitan (which includes Gilbeys of Ireland), Diageo, Allied Domecq (second largest wine and spirit company in the world), The Jim Beam Company and Moet Hennessy.
Outside work he has given a life-time commitment to promoting not-for-profit organisations and charities, and he chair Co-operation Ireland in the USA, where he now lives.
Clerkin - who is due to speak at the Belfast International Homecoming - was presented with the award at Stormont Castle by Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness and NI Connections chief executive Andrew Cowan in recognition of his ongoing commitment to helping promote Northern Irish business and cultural links around the world.
He said: “I hope the award will inspire others to get involved in helping Northern Ireland live up to its potential, whether they are living at home or abroad. It is now essential that the diaspora plays a role in informing Northern Ireland’s future ambitions."
Mr McGuinness said: “Jim has a proven track record over many years of supporting the peace and our political, social and economic progress.
"Through his personal dedication and determination promoting business opportunities and investment in the north of Ireland many lives have been improved. He has been a real champion of reconciliation who never forgot his roots."
