Export manager at Winzer Krems, part-time lecturer at IMC Krems and promoter of young talents: that's our International Wine Business graduate Thomas Brunner.
Story
The International world of wine exports
Bringing wines from the Wachau and Kremstal regions successfully onto international markets – this is the mission of Thomas Brunner, a graduate of the English-taught International Wine Business programme at IMC Krems. What began in 2012 with his entry into the export team at Winzer Krems has, through studies, further training and many years of professional experience, led him to the position of Head of Export. Today, he is responsible for overseas markets in Europe, the USA and Asia – and lives what he first learnt during his studies: wine is more than just a product, it is a cultural asset with global appeal.
A career with international focus
Thomas Brunner has been with Winzer Krems eG, one of Austria’s most renowned wine producers, for more than a decade. From the outset, he combined practical experience with continuing education: after his first professional steps in gastronomy and a sommelier qualification, he decided in 2016 to enrol in the English-taught International Wine Business bachelor degree programme at IMC Krems. At the same time, he gained experience in exports and specialised in international markets.
In 2019 he completed his bachelor degree at IMC Krems, followed by a part-time master degree in Marketing & Sales at the University for Continuing Education Krems. This combination of academic expertise and practical know-how paved the way for his promotion: in 2025 he assumed the role of Head of Export at Winzer Krems.
His responsibilities include managing key markets such as Germany, Scandinavia, the USA and Asia. Under his guidance, the export share of Winzer Krems has risen in recent years to account for more than 50% bottled wine sales.
Our interview with Thomas Brunner
What motivated you to study International Wine Business at IMC Krems?
I have always been fascinated by the link between wine and business. While sensory expertise and product knowledge are important, without a solid foundation in marketing, export and international law it is impossible to succeed in foreign markets. The degree programme gave me exactly this foundation – in an international environment that was highly practice-oriented.
What advice would you give students aspiring to an international career in the wine industry?
It is crucial to know one’s strengths and capabilities well. Continuous further training in business, management and, of course, wine is essential. Building, maintaining and making use of international networks is equally important. Flexibility and adaptability are also vital for achieving long-term success.
Together on the road to success: Thomas brings Tobias Frings into his team
Thomas Brunner is a shining example of how an international career in the wine industry can unfold: a solid education at IMC Krems, continuous professional development and extensive practical experience have led him to the top of exports at Winzer Krems. His story demonstrates that wine is not only about tradition – it also represents the future on global markets.
Since 2025, he has also been lecturing at IMC Krems together with alumni Mio Schild and Fabian Tiefnig. Within the International Wine Business degree programme, he teaches the Wine Export Markets course, passing on his expertise to the next generation.
Another example of his close connection with the university: in September 2025 he brought Tobias Frings, whom he had met during one of his lectures, into the export team at the Sandgrube 13. Recognising his potential, Thomas is now working with him to continue the successful path of recent years.
