Patrick Gooch has enjoyed an interesting and varied career. He studied the history of art and went on to lecture at the Central School of Art and Design in London. He has also worked for many years as a marketing professional for international companies. One of his roles was chief executive of a British government-inspired trade council. Later, at the request of the Spanish government, he established and managed Foods From Spain, a campaign to promote Spanish foods and wines in the UK. For his service, he was awarded the title Commander of Civil Merit by King Juan Carlos. Thereafter, he joined his wife's trade development company, which specialised in providing marketing support for governments of countries exporting their goods to Britain. It was while traveling to all parts of Europe and Central and South America that he began writing.