Reserve Account Manager at Guinness

Luxury spirits category is in growth, reflecting global trends for consumers to buy less but better quality. With a general trend toward premiumisation and limitations on volume growth within a mature market, premium brands are key to unlocking future value growth for the company.



Our premium spirits range represent a strong growth and profit opportunity for Diageo and our Reserve customers, and there are ambitious targets in place for F20-25. There is a need to continue to build market share with driven and effective trade and marketing strategies



Role Purpose



As a Reserve Account Manager in the Key On-Trade segment of Premium and Luxury Spirits, you will play a pivotal role in driving brand equity, sales growth, and brand status within targeted outlets. You will manage client relationships, identify new opportunities, and deliver brand objectives. This position requires a multifaceted individual comfortable with flexible schedules, including late-night events, while leading all aspects of promotional activities and building strong connections in the industry.



Key Responsibilities



Developing Key Account Strategies:







Build positive relationships with high-end On-Trade outlets and influencers, using your deep industry knowledge with tailored commercial plans for each account.

Stay ahead of market trends, particularly in Spirits and consumer preferences, and apply this insight to influence decision-making.

Demonstrate an understanding of ingredients, processes, and global cocktail trends to offer scalable solutions that drive brand growth.



Relationship Management







Nurture meaningful relationships with both external customers and internal team members, influencin win-win outcomes and driving brand dedication.

Proactively analyze market trends to adjust strategies, ensuring that brand and sales objectives are met or exceeded.



Execution Excellence







Implement brand plans with a focus on driving sales and growing brand presence in key accounts.

Demonstrate accountability and a solutions-oriented approach, even when faced with ambiguity or uncertainty.

Maintain a positive outlook, continuously seeking opportunities for improvement and innovation.



Top 3 Functional Capabilities







Industry Connectivity: Extensive network within premium On-Trade outlets and a keen understanding of industry influencers and opportunities.

Category Knowledge: Expertise in Spirits, including ingredients and processes, and a drive for luxury brands that improves consumer engagement.

Execution Excellence: Proven track record in driving commercial and brand strategies, with a strong sense of accountability and attention to detail.



Qualifications & Experience







Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field.

Proven track record in sales or account management within the beverage, spirits, or FMCG industries.

Strong leadership and organizational skills to effectively manage promotional activities from planning through execution.

Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills with a history of building and maintaining key relationships.

In-depth knowledge of competitors, distributors, and key consumer insights.

Ability to work flexible hours, including late nights and weekends.

A love for luxury brands and a strong ambition to succeed in the premium spirits space.



Barriers To Success







Failure to align business and brand objectives with territory-specific goals.

Inability to deliver projects within specified timelines or adapt to flexible schedules.

Lack of drive, subject area, or failure to engage collaborators effectively.

Weak understanding of the market's complexity or failure to grasp key commercial insights.

Lack of love for our reserve category or discomfort with technology.



This role is ideal for an ambitious, hardworking individual who swims in the luxury spirits environment and excels in building brand prestige through strategic account management.