Jo first became involved with wine production in the UK in the 1980’s at one of England’s earliest vineyards, Rock Lodge, in West Sussex. While at University, studying Agriculture, she met her future husband, David, a winemaker. At Rock Lodge they produced one of the first English sparkling wines, and were then central to the start of Chapel Down Wines, now one of the largest and most successful wine producers in England. Jo also has a background in agricultural journalism and event management.

In 2004 Jo, her husband, and three daughters, moved to a domaine in Southern France to produce wine in a slightly warmer climate, enjoy a different culture and lifestyle and educate their girls. As well as being involved in all aspects of production, Jo set up export markets and sold the wine around the world.

In 2009, Jo joined Plumpton College as a part of the Wine Department lecturing team and as WineSkills Project Coordinator. She launched the WineSkills project in February 2010. Jo currently oversees the finance and adminstration of the project and organises Workshops and Masterclasses along with the other two members of the team, Alistair Nesbitt and Andrew Atkinson.