Managing Director UK – Premium Drinks Business – England – Up to £120k plus package
My client is a premium drink brand with real momentum, and they are looking for a Managing Director to take the UK business to its next stage of growth.The brand is already established in the UK, with a loyal following, strong credentials and a reputation for quality.The foundations are in place and the ambition is big.
This is a true scaling opportunity.You’ll take the helm of a lean, close-knit UK team and have the freedom to shape how it grows, from the structure and the people to the strategy and the culture.You won’t be inheriting a corporate machine.You’ll be building one, with the backing of a European parent business that is invested in the UK’s success.
One of the biggest chapters is the launch of draught into the UK, opening new on-trade opportunities and putting the brand in front of a whole new audience.You’ll lead it from the front, from route to market and pricing through to activation and building the right partnerships.
It’s a hands‑on role.You’ll be out in the market, visiting accounts, working alongside your agency and wholesale partners and getting stuck into the detail.You’ll also have a real seat at the table, working closely with the finance and operations teams and reporting directly into the European head office.Your decisions will shape the UK P& L, and your voice will carry weight.
What this business offers:
- The chance to continue the growth of the UK business with real autonomy
- A high‑visibility role with direct exposure to the European leadership team
- Competitive salary, bonus and benefits package
- A premium brand with an exciting growth story
Managing Director responsibilities include:
- Own the UK P&L and commercial strategy, driving profitable growth across both on‑trade and off‑trade
- Lead the launch of draught into the UK, building the route to market, pricing and on‑trade activation plans
- Manage and get the best from an external sales agency, setting clear targets and holding them to account
- Develop and strengthen wholesale relationships, securing distribution and joint business plans
- Work closely with the finance and operations teams on forecasting, margin management, supply chain and planning
- Act as the key link with the European head office, representing the UK market and delivering against group objectives
- Recruit and build the UK team as the business grows, creating a high‑performing, entrepreneurial culture
- Act as the face of the brand with key customers, partners and trade stakeholders
The Ideal Managing Director candidate:
- Proven senior commercial experience in premium drinks, alcohol or FMCG, with a strong UK on‑ and off‑trade background
- A track record of growing brands or businesses, ideally in a start‑up, challenger or scale‑up environment
- Experience of draught or on‑trade distribution is highly desirable
- Strong commercial and financial acumen, comfortable owning a P&L and working with finance and ops
- Experience managing agencies, distributors or wholesalers
- A genuine “roll your sleeves up” mindset, equally happy writing the strategy and visiting accounts
- Confident influencer with the presence to work with European senior leadership
- Experience building and developing teams
Managing Director in England employer: COREcruitment Ltd
Join a vibrant and growing hospitality group in the heart of London, where you will play a pivotal role in shaping the employee experience. With a strong focus on personal development and a supportive work culture led by an inspiring mentor, this position offers unique opportunities for growth and collaboration within a dynamic team. Enjoy the benefits of working in a fast-paced environment that values innovation and employee welfare, all while being part of a company with ambitious plans for the future.
