the client is seeking a General Manager to lead the expansion of a premium spirits brand into a scalable retail business. The role will build a lasting presence in the beverage alcohol market by moving the brand from a limited, high-value collector bottle model toward broader retail distribution and sustained consumer reach.
The General Manager will design and implement the retail expansion strategy, including pricing, distribution, and channel approach. Responsibilities include establishing partnerships with distributors and premium retail accounts while maintaining relationships with on-premise venues such as high-end bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. The role also oversees operational functions tied to supply, logistics, compliance, and fulfillment, and will recruit and manage a small team to support sales and marketing as the retail business develops.
The ideal candidate will have deep experience in the very premium spirits or beverage alcohol industry, with strong knowledge of brand building, distribution, and retail growth, including a proven record of scaling a spirits brand beyond initial launch. Requirements include demonstrable success transitioning products into retail markets, managing distributor and retailer relationships across the U.S. market, and the ability to operate effectively in an entrepreneurial, founder-led environment with limited resources. A bachelor’s degree is required, and frequent travel to priority markets and partners is expected.