Account Manager - Regional channel

About usFounded in 1999, we were one of the first multi-channel, multi-market global drinks distributors and remain leaders in our field. Our retail arm The Whisky Exchange operates a multi-award-winning website selling over 5000 whiskies, spirits, liqueurs and Champagnes to over 65 countries around the world. We have a division that creates brands and distributes them around the world; another division that wholesales to the finest bars, restaurants and hotels; we boast an industry-leading auction site. We organise the UK's leading whisky show. We pride ourselves on our imagination, creativity and ability to source and sell fantastic spirits from across the globe.Being part of the Speciality Drinks Group means you’ll be working with some of the very best people in the drinks industry and be part of a fast-growing team that is passionate about everything we do. We’re a business built on people and look after everything in-house – from website development, design and marketing to technology, customer service and global distribution. We’re looking for bright, motivated, creative people who share our passion for excellence, innovation and delivering great customer service. In return we can offer an exciting, fast-moving, varied environment with great opportunities for career progression. Could it be you?The opportunityWe have a rare and exciting opportunity to join our Regional Sales Team servicing the UK’s leading hospitality venues. Delivering growth and driving profitability across the country. While managing existing business is key part of the role, the primary focus of the role will be identifying and building a pipeline of sustainable and profitable new accounts. As a key member of the team you will be an integral support for the sector manager and work closely with the wider sales and customer service teams to deliver an exceptional customer experience combining deep industry knowledge with a keen eye on emerging trends.The role will be London based, however it will involve some customer-specific travel to key cities including Edinburgh, and Manchester on a monthly and quarterly basis.We are looking for someone who has a passion for the drinks industry, has a solid knowledge in spirits, can build relationships remotely and in person, has proven success working with the premium and high-end on trade delivering customer service excellence, and is a real team player.In this dynamic environment it will be critical to success that the role holder is able to think strategically but is also hands-on and agile in adapting to changing circumstances.In return, you will be part of a friendly and supportive team who embrace each other’s opinions, respect each other’s experience and openly share best practice so we can succeed together and enjoy the benefits of our wonderful hospitality industry along the way.Your unique contributionManage a portfolio of long-standing, valued accounts, ensuring continued growth throughexcellent service, proactive account management, and effective problem-solvingProspect and cultivate new business through research & networking across the trade to reveal all potential relevant and profitable opportunities and turn these into long-term, profitable and sustainable accountsCollaborate with different business functions to deliver a high level of integrated customer service, find solutions for any issues and look for opportunities to improve our processes and communicate this both internally and externallyContinually develop and grow understanding of spirit and Champagne categories and new product launches, to ensure you can add value to your customer base through top class knowledge and recommendationsAdopt a consultative approach to deliver real value for your customers through brand introductions; arranging training sessions with our brand ambassador; access to exclusive products or any other relevant support requestsHas a thorough understanding of the role a wholesale route to market partner plays in the drinks industry and the value they can add to both customers and suppliersWork towards achieving annual targets set on several key measurable objectives to achieve desired results for Speciality Drinks business through relationship building, strategic planning and successful tendering.Showcase a ‘can-do’ attitude to support your immediate and wider team offering a proactive and supportive contribution to our One Team approachYour blend of talentA proven track record in a customer facing role within wholesale spirits or brand company.In depth spirits and Champagne knowledgeWSET advanced certificate desirableProficient IT skills (particularly the Microsoft Package: Excel, PowerPoint and Word)Good presentation skills and excellent attention to detailStrong organisational skillsSelf- motivated and results drivenFlexible, reliable, and hardworkingAble to communicate well with others and strong interpersonal skillsPolite, professional and approachable telephone mannerCommercially astute‘Team’ mentalityPresentable and professional, alwaysBenefits of joining Speciality DrinksFun StuffStaff Discount at The Whisky Exchange | Tastings | Product Education | Access to Events | Cycle to Work SchemeSerious StuffEAP | Great Parental Leave Policies | Life Cover | Private Medical InsuranceFeel Good StuffS&R Initiatives | Career Development | Responsib’All Day | Employee Networks | Flexi Work | 25 Days Holiday (plus Bank Holidays)We’re committed to diversity and inclusion.We promote diversity and inclusion throughout our business. In our teams, we proactively foster a diverse work force and an inclusive culture – an environment where we can truly be ourselves.We will assess your application for this role based on your skills, experiences and achievements, not your gender, age, ethnic or educational background or any other such factors. Please feel free to leave these off your CV and application form if you so wish.