General Manager -Whisky cask group

General Manager - Scotch Whisky Projects & Business Development

Company: Whiskey Cask GroupIndustry: Scotch Whisky | Independent Bottling | Private Label | Luxury Spirits

Location: UK or Dubai, UAE - Remote / Hybrid Working Available

Employment Type: Full-time or Consultancy (depending on experience)Seniority: Senior ManagementRemuneration: Competitive package based on experience, with performance-related incentivesAbout Whiskey Cask GroupWhiskey Cask Group is a specialist Scotch whisky business focused on developing exclusive whisky products and bespoke bottling programmes for private clients, corporate customers and international brands.Our services include private-label Scotch whisky, limited-edition bottlings, corporate gifting, exclusive cask projects and premium whisky collections.We work with established industry partners to manage everything from whisky sourcing and product development to bottling, packaging and international delivery.As we continue to expand, we are looking for an experienced whisky industry professional to help manage our commercial activities, develop new business opportunities and oversee the successful delivery of client projects.The OpportunityWe are seeking an experienced General Manager - Scotch Whisky Projects & Business Development to play a key role in growing Whiskey Cask Group.This is a varied, hands-on position combining business development, project management, supplier relationships and general business operations.We are particularly interested in candidates who already have extensive experience within the Scotch whisky industry and an established network of contacts across distilleries, independent bottlers, cask suppliers and specialist production partners.The successful candidate will be comfortable managing the complete lifecycle of a whisky project, from identifying a commercial opportunity and developing a proposal through to coordinating production and final delivery.This is not a traditional sales role.

We are looking for someone with genuine whisky industry knowledge who can combine commercial thinking with practical project delivery and operational management.Key ResponsibilitiesBusiness Development & Commercial GrowthIdentify and develop new business opportunities with private clients, corporate customers, luxury brands and international partnersBuild and maintain a strong pipeline of potential clients and commercial projectsDevelop proposals, commercial pricing and project budgetsManage client relationships from initial enquiry through to contract negotiation and deliveryIdentify opportunities for strategic partnerships, new products and international expansionSupport the directors in developing and implementing the company's commercial strategyWhisky Sourcing & Industry RelationshipsMaintain and develop relationships with Scotch whisky distilleries, independent bottlers, cask brokers and suppliersSource appropriate whisky stocks and bottling solutions for bespoke client projectsCoordinate with bottling facilities, packaging suppliers, designers and logistics partnersNegotiate pricing, production schedules and commercial agreementsIdentify reliable partners capable of delivering premium-quality whisky productsPrivate Client & Bespoke Whisky ProjectsManage bespoke whisky projects from concept to completionWork directly with clients to understand their requirements, budgets and expectationsCoordinate whisky selection, bottling, labelling, packaging and product presentationOversee production schedules, supplier performance and quality controlManage project budgets, timelines and profitabilityCoordinate international fulfilment, export documentation and specialist delivery requirementsGeneral Management & OperationsSupport the day-to-day commercial and operational management of Whiskey Cask GroupDevelop efficient processes for managing projects, suppliers and customersMonitor financial performance, project costs and commercial marginsManage multiple client projects and business development opportunities simultaneouslyProvide regular progress reports and commercial updates to the directorsHelp establish the systems, partnerships and operational infrastructure required to scale the businessEssential Experience & SkillsDirect experience within the Scotch whisky industry is essential for this position.We are looking for candidates who can demonstrate:At least 5 years of relevant experience within the Scotch whisky industryAn established professional network within the bottling, distilling, whisky sourcing or independent bottling sectorsExperience developing or managing private-label, bespoke bottling or exclusive whisky projectsStrong commercial and business development capabilitiesProven project management and supplier coordination experienceUnderstanding of whisky production, sourcing, bottling, packaging and associated commercial costsExcellent client relationship management and negotiation skillsStrong organisational and financial management capabilitiesAbility to work independently, manage competing priorities and take ownership of business activitiesDesirable ExperienceAdditional experience in the following areas would be advantageous:Independent Scotch whisky bottling businessesPrivate cask ownership and bespoke bottling programmesHigh-net-worth individuals and luxury private clientsCorporate gifting and premium branded whisky programmesInternational whisky distribution and exportProduct development, packaging and brand creationManaging specialist bottling and international fulfilment partnersExperience growing or managing a small or medium-sized whisky businessLocation & Flexible WorkingWe recognise that experienced whisky industry professionals may be based in different locations.This role offers flexibility, including the opportunity to work remotely from Dubai, UAE, or the United Kingdom.We are open to discussing remote, hybrid or consultancy arrangements with the right candidate.The position will require regular communication with our international clients and industry partners, with occasional travel to suppliers, bottling facilities and client meetings where necessary.Our priority is finding the right person with the industry experience, commercial capabilities and professional network to help develop the business.What We OfferA senior role within a growing specialist Scotch whisky businessThe opportunity to take ownership of commercial growth and client projectsDirect involvement in the company's business strategy and international expansionAccess to exciting bespoke whisky projects for private and corporate clientsFlexible working arrangements, including remote working from DubaiSignificant autonomy and the opportunity to shape the future development of the businessCompetitive remuneration with potential performance-related incentivesWho We're Looking ForYou may currently be working for an independent bottler, whisky merchant, cask company, distillery or specialist spirits business.Perhaps you have spent years developing relationships within the whisky industry and are now looking for an opportunity to use that experience in a more entrepreneurial environment.We are looking for someone who understands the industry, knows the right people and can confidently take a whisky project from initial discussion to finished product.Someone who can develop business, manage suppliers, coordinate projects and help us build a successful international whisky company.Industry knowledge, established relationships and practical experience are far more important to us than formal qualifications.How To ApplyPlease submit your CV along with a short introduction explaining your experience within the Scotch whisky industry.We would particularly welcome examples of private bottling projects, supplier relationships, commercial partnerships or bespoke whisky programmes you have successfully managed.We look forward to hearing from experienced whisky professionals who would like to play an important role in the next stage of Whiskey Cask Group's growth.