About the Role
We are seeking an experienced wine and beverage alcohol industry professional to lead the continued growth of our portfolio across key markets. This Director-level role offers the opportunity to shape regional sales strategy, support business operations, strengthen industry partnerships, and contribute to the long-term success of our winery portfolio. The ideal candidate combines a passion for wine with strong business acumen, relationship-building, sales, and market development expertise. This individual will serve as a key ambassador for our brands, helping expand distribution, strengthen on- and off-premise partnerships, support consumer engagement initiatives, and elevate brand awareness within the wine community. This is an opportunity for someone who enjoys building meaningful industry relationships, identifying growth opportunities, and making a lasting impact within a respected and entrepreneurial winery portfolio.
Responsibilities
- Lead the development and execution of market growth strategies to increase distribution, placements, and revenue.
- Identify and secure new business opportunities across on-premise and off-premise accounts.
- Build and maintain relationships with retailers, restaurants, distributors, hospitality groups, and key industry stakeholders.
- Conduct regular market visits and account calls to drive sales performance and brand visibility.
- Develop tailored sales presentations and programs aligned with customer objectives.
- Track sales activity, account performance, and market opportunities.
- Support the growth and expansion of membership and direct-to-consumer initiatives.
- Provide operational oversight and support for key business initiatives as needed.
- Partner with distributor sales teams to execute market initiatives and achieve growth objectives.
- Conduct ride-alongs, trainings, and market work-withs to support distributor engagement.
- Ensure effective execution of sales programs, promotional initiatives, and product launches.
- Maintain strong communication with key accounts and distributor partners.
- Serve as a brand ambassador for the winery portfolio.
- Host wine tastings, wine dinners, consumer events, trade events, and educational programs.
- Support marketing initiatives designed to increase brand awareness and consumer engagement.
- Represent the winery at industry events, trade shows, and community functions.
- Assist with content creation, storytelling, and customer engagement efforts when appropriate.
- Monitor market trends, competitive activity, and emerging opportunities.
- Provide recommendations on pricing, product positioning, and market expansion opportunities.
- Maintain a strong understanding of regional wine trends and consumer preferences.
- Share insights and feedback to support strategic business decisions.
- Provide leadership, mentorship, and general oversight for team members and membership-related initiatives while fostering collaboration across business functions.
- Support operational planning, customer engagement efforts, and cross-functional business objectives.
- Assist with administrative responsibilities and special projects as needed.
Requirements
- Experience supporting business management, operations, strategic planning, and organizational growth initiatives.
- Strong organizational, operational, and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment.
- 5+ years of wine industry experience in sales, business development, winery operations, distributor management, or related roles.
- Strong knowledge of New York and California wine regions, varietals, producers, and market dynamics.
- Existing relationships within the New York wine trade highly preferred.
- Experience working with distributors, wholesalers, retailers, restaurants, and hospitality accounts.
- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain long-term customer relationships.
- Strong presentation, communication, and storytelling skills.
- Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities.
- Entrepreneurial mindset with a hands-on approach to problem-solving and market development.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and CRM systems.
- Willingness and ability to travel as needed.
Skills
- Sales
- Business Development
- Market Development
- Relationship Building
- Distribution Expansion
- Partnership Management
- Consumer Engagement
- Brand Awareness
- Business Acumen
- Strategic Planning
- Business Operations
- Market Execution
- Brand Representation
- Presentation Skills
- Communication Skills
- Storytelling Skills
- Project Management
- Microsoft Office Suite
- CRM Systems
Location
- Long Island, NY (Metro New York Area)
- Remote
Work Type
- Remote
- Travel required
Experience Level
- Director-level
- 5+ years of wine industry experience
Education Level
- WSET, Court of Master Sommeliers, CSW, or similar wine certification preferred.
Salary/Compensations
- $100,000–$120,000 base salary plus performance-based incentive opportunity.
About the Company
- This is a confidential search being conducted on behalf of an established winery portfolio.
- Company details will be shared with qualified candidates as the interview process progresses.
