Alchemy Global Talent Solutions has partnered with a prestigious global auction house, to find an experienced and ambitious Head of Spirits, UK & Europe based in Edinburgh with an April 2025 start. As a member of the global Wine & Spirits team, this vital role is responsible for driving the expansion of the spirits industry throughout Europe, which includes the UK, Scotland, France, Italy, Belgium, and Germany. The successful candidate will contribute extensive expertise in Fine Spirits, a customer-focused mindset, and the capacity to flourish in a vibrant, multicultural setting.
Role and Responsibilities
*Collaborate with operations and specialist teams to guarantee smooth marketing and auction operations.
*Assure the highest standards of accuracy and quality by providing professional spirits valuation, research, and cataloguing.
*Maintain and develop a strong buyer and seller database in order to ensure recurring business and ongoing customer loyalty.
*Work alongside the marketing team to create focused advertising campaigns that support auctions and company expansion.
*Assess competitor strategies to uphold our position as a leader in the spirits auction market.
*Manage Spirits auctions and associated activities, handling every aspect from planning to execution.
*Develop team members’ market knowledge and skills by mentoring and training them in the Spirits market.
*Verify the correct assessment and handling of properties by conducting property inspections at client locations and warehouses.
*Create and implement comprehensive client engagement strategies in collaboration with the Client Development team.
*Establish strong connections between external stakeholders and internal teams.
*Proofread catalogues and listings to maintain a professional standard.
*Build and execute strategies to boost the Spirits business growth and visibility throughout Europe.
*Lead colleagues in providing outstanding customer service whilst assisting with pre- and post-purchase tasks.
*Develop relationships with buyers, consignors, and trade contacts to meet and surpass sales targets.
*To boost the department’s profile, propose and deliver lectures, exhibitions, and additional events.
*Work closely with the global Wine & Spirits team to curate innovative and high-profile auctions.
*Work with global and regional leadership to oversee the European Spirits department’s P&L, including forecasting and budgeting.
Key Skills and Experience
*Five years of experience in the luxury goods or spirits industry minimum, with a high level of familiarity with the spirits industry.
*Flexibility and the capacity to perform well under time limits in order to fulfil deadlines.
*Strong pipeline management and sales acumen.
*Demonstrated management and leadership skills in fast-paced, high-growth settings.
*Thorough familiarity with international auction procedures and the spirits market.
*Proficiency with Excel, PowerPoint, and Word on Microsoft.
*Outstanding networking abilities with the capacity to turn contacts into business prospects.
*Strong interpersonal, communication, and organising abilities.
*Willingness to travel frequently.
*English proficiency is essential, other European languages are also highly desired.