At a Glance
- Tasks: Build and manage relationships in the premium spirits market across London.
- Company: Dynamic company focused on premium spirits with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Autonomy in your role, competitive salary, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Ideal for proactive individuals who thrive on building and shaping their own success.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the vibrant London spirits scene while showcasing your expertise.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of the On Trade channel and excellent negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 33075 - 40425 £ per year.
This is a business development role for someone who wants genuine autonomy, not a territory to be managed, but one to be built. You’ll take charge of a portfolio of On Trade and route-to-market accounts across London (with some national reach), representing a premium spirits portfolio spanning owned and distribution brands. Malt whisky and rum are at the heart of it, so if you know your Speyside from your Islay and your Jamaican pot still from your Bajan blend, you’ll be right at home. This isn’t about chasing volume for volume’s sake. It’s about value - building relationships that last, growing category share, and shaping how a premium spirits portfolio shows up across London's on-trade scene.
What you’ll be doing:
- Managing a mix of On Trade customers, RTM representatives and specialist retail accounts, direct and via third parties
- Running public tastings and staff training sessions
- Owning your expenses, account spend and samples budget
- Keeping your CRM up to date and working for you, not against you
- Reporting into your line manager and the wider commercial team
What success looks like:
- Hitting volume and gross income growth targets across your account base, with a clear portfolio focus
- Setting your own goals, planning your own activity, and being honest with yourself about what’s working
- Understanding the category landscape and trends well enough to spot the next opportunity before anyone else does
What you’ll bring:
- Strong existing knowledge of the London On Trade channel and customer base
- Excellent product knowledge, particularly whisky and premium spirits
- Sharp negotiation and influencing skills
- The autonomy and drive to make key decisions and own the outcomes
- A collaborative streak - this only works if you play well with the wider commercial team
- Confidence presenting and pitching, including tender proposals
- Strong Excel and Microsoft Office skills
- A genuine appetite to keep learning about new products and ways of working
Who this is for:
Someone dynamic, proactive and determined, who wants to be judged on what they build, not just what they’re told to do. If you’re looking for a role where you’re trusted to make it your own, this is it.
Business Development Executive - London employer: DrinkAbility
Join one of the world's most iconic whisky retailers as a Full Stack Developer and enjoy a unique opportunity to shape the future of their technology. With direct access to the CEO and CTO, you'll have full architectural ownership from day one, allowing you to see the immediate impact of your work in a vibrant Soho HQ. The company fosters a culture of innovation and growth, offering a staff whisky allowance and an education programme that reflects its commitment to employee development and engagement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Executive - London
✨Leverage Your Network
In sales and business development, who you know can often be as important as what you know. Get involved with local networking events or industry meetups to connect with key players. Don't be shy—share your passion for the field and let folks know you're on the lookout for opportunities!
✨Show Your Skills Through Real-World Results
When targeting a full-time role like Business Development Executive - London at DrinkAbility, presenting tangible results from your previous sales experience can set you apart. Bring along case studies or examples of how you've closed deals or expanded accounts, and don't forget to showcase your problem-solving prowess. It’s all about quantifying your success!
✨Engage with Sales Communities
Dive deep into online sales communities, like Sales Hacker or LinkedIn groups dedicated to sales professionals. Engaging in discussions and sharing insights can boost your visibility and might just put you on the radar of hiring managers looking for fresh talent in business development.
✨Direct Applications Matter
While we all know the online application route, consider sending direct applications to companies you admire, including DrinkAbility. Tailor your message to explain why you’re drawn to them and how you can contribute as a Business Development Executive - London. Sometimes, a personal touch can grab attention faster than a generic application!
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Executive - London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Those Sales Skills:In your CV and cover letter, highlight any previous sales or business development experience you have. Use numbers and examples to showcase your achievements – did you exceed sales targets or bring in new clients? Make those accomplishments shine!
Tailor Your Message for DrinkAbility:When writing your cover letter, make sure to tailor your message specifically for DrinkAbility. Show that you know the company’s mission and how your skills align with their goals in the sales landscape. This personalised touch will grab their attention!
Keep It Professional Yet Engaging:Sales is all about relationships, so while you want to maintain professionalism in your application, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Engage the reader and demonstrate your enthusiastic approach to sales and business development!
Proof of Performance:Include any relevant certifications or training you’ve undertaken in sales or negotiation tactics. If you’ve attended workshops or courses, list these to showcase your commitment to professional development. This extra touch can set you apart from the competition!
How to prepare for a job interview at DrinkAbility
✨Know Your Sales Methodologies
Brush up on popular sales methodologies like SPIN Selling or Challenger Sales. Being able to discuss these techniques and how you've applied them will show DrinkAbility that you understand the role and can hit the ground running in the sales game.
✨Demonstrate Your Deal-Making Skills
Prepare to share stories from your past experiences where you closed deals, overcame objections, or started new client relationships. We want to show DrinkAbility that you’re not just about numbers but also about building lasting connections in business development.
✨Prepare for Role-Play Scenarios
In a full-time sales interview, don’t be surprised if they throw in a role-play exercise to test your pitching skills. Practising how you would pitch a product or handle an objection will help us shine in this simulation—think of it like a dress rehearsal for your future sales calls!
✨Align Your Goals with the Company’s Vision
Take a moment to reflect on how your career ambitions align with DrinkAbility’s objectives. When we articulate how our personal growth ties in with the company’s goals, it shows commitment and a genuine interest in contributing to their success.
