At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive sales of premium whiskies and gins in London's top venues.
- Company: Join Ian Macleod Distillers, a leader in luxury spirits.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, benefits, and continuous learning opportunities.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the luxury spirits scene while building your network.
- Qualifications: Experience in on-trade sales and a passion for premium spirits required.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with a love for fine drinks.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Ian Macleod Distillers Ltd is looking for a Londonâcentric, highly experienced onâtrade business development and sales professional to join our UK trade team. This role focuses on growing our awardâwinning whisky and gin portfolio across London's most prestigious venues.
Responsibilities
- Portfolio ownership: Lead growth of Fine & Rare whiskies and core prestige SKUs across ~150 London accounts (including small groups) with full P&L accountability.
- Distribution & rate of sale: Win new listings, expand distribution, and drive net margin through joint business planning.
- Senior relationships: Deepen ties with F&B Directors, Buyers, GMs and Head Sommeliers; unlock longâterm opportunities.
- Programming & advocacy: Build sellâout calendars, host tastings, deliver training, and bring our stories to life in luxury settings.
- Crossâfunctional wins: Partner with Advocacy/Marketing/RTM to execute commercial plans that convert.
- Market intelligence: Track competitor activity and luxury consumer trends to stay ahead.
- Representation: Represent the brand at trade events and maintain a strong presence in the field, including evenings and weekends.
What success looks like
- New Tier 1 listings across target segments and rateâofâsale up on priority SKUs.
- Margin uplift via mix optimisation and premiumisation.
- Standout programmes/activations that become repeatable assets.
- A visible, respected presence across the London luxury scene.
About you
- Already operating at prestige/luxury onâtrade management level in spirits, or ready to step up, with evidence.
- Demonstrable experience in onâtrade sales/account management for premium spirits (whisky/gin advantageous).
- A London luxury network, proven access to senior decisionâmakers and you're comfortable at management level.
- Strong commercial acumen with P&L ownership, pricing, negotiation, forecasting.
- Confident host/trainer; credible whisky & gin knowledge (WSET Spirits 2/3 welcome).
- London fieldâbased, proactive, and happy covering the evening/weekend hospitality rhythm.
Be part of a passionate, highâperforming team with a shared love for premium spirits. Work with a prestigious portfolio of brands and help shape their presence in the UK's most iconic venues. Competitive salary and benefits package. Continuous learning and development opportunities. A role that offers autonomy, creativity, and the chance to make a real difference.
Application
To apply, click the 'apply now' button to create your own recruitment account and submit your application. You must submit a CV, answer key questions, and include a cover letter that explains why you are a perfect fit for this role. Note: Candidates must already have full eligibility to live and work in the UK. The advert may close at any time depending on applications received. Ian Macleod Distillers Ltd is an equal opportunity employer. We proudly support responsible spirits and promote responsible selling and consumption of alcohol.
Prestige Sales Manager (London, On Trade) employer: Ian Macleod Distillers Ltd
Contact Detail:
Ian Macleod Distillers Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice đ¤Ť
We think this is how you could land Prestige Sales Manager (London, On Trade)
â¨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and mingle! Attend industry events, tastings, and trade shows to meet key players in the London luxury scene. Building relationships with F&B Directors and GMs can open doors that a CV just can't.
â¨Show Off Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, flaunt your knowledge of whisky and gin. Share insights on market trends and competitor activity to demonstrate your commercial acumen and passion for the industry.
â¨Be Proactive
Donât wait for opportunities to come to you. Reach out to venues you admire and pitch how you can help them grow their spirits portfolio. This proactive approach shows you're serious about making an impact in the on-trade sector.
â¨Apply Through Us
Remember, applying through our website is the best way to get noticed! Create your recruitment account, submit your CV, and let us help you land that dream role as a Prestige Sales Manager.
We think you need these skills to ace Prestige Sales Manager (London, On Trade)
Some tips for your application đŤĄ
Craft Your CV with Care: Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Tailor it to highlight your experience in on-trade sales and your connections within the London luxury scene. We want to see how youâve driven growth and built relationships in your previous roles.
Nail That Cover Letter: This is your chance to shine! Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for the Prestige Sales Manager role. Share specific examples of your achievements and how they align with our goals at Ian Macleod Distillers. Make it personal and engaging!
Answer Key Questions Thoughtfully: When you get to the key questions, take your time. Weâre looking for insights into your thought process and how you approach challenges in the on-trade environment. Be honest and let your personality come through â we want to know the real you!
Apply Through Our Website: Donât forget to hit that 'apply now' button on our website! Itâs the easiest way to submit your application and ensures it gets to the right people. Plus, it helps us keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ian Macleod Distillers Ltd
â¨Know Your Portfolio Inside Out
Make sure youâre well-versed in the Fine & Rare whiskies and core prestige SKUs. Be ready to discuss their unique selling points, how they fit into the market, and why they stand out in Londonâs competitive landscape.
â¨Build Relationships Before the Interview
If possible, connect with F&B Directors or GMs at the venues youâll be targeting. Having a few names in your back pocket can show your proactive approach and help you demonstrate your existing network during the interview.
â¨Showcase Your Commercial Acumen
Prepare to discuss your experience with P&L ownership and how you've driven margin uplift in previous roles. Use specific examples to illustrate your negotiation skills and how youâve successfully forecasted sales.
â¨Be Ready to Host a Mock Tasting
Since hosting tastings is part of the role, practice presenting a mock tasting during your interview. This will not only showcase your confidence but also your credible knowledge of whisky and gin, making you a memorable candidate.