National Account Controller - On Trade

Allexo Search; England; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading spirits group is seeking an experienced National Account Controller to enhance growth within the On-Trade and Pub Group sector. This role involves developing strategies, managing key accounts, and ensuring the delivery of marketing initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in the drinks industry, with excellent interpersonal and strategic thinking skills. This position requires a blend of commercial acumen and hands-on execution ability, along with WSET Level 2 Spirits training preferred.

Qualifications

• Experience in the drinks industry with senior customer management exposure.
• Proven ability to build profitable value chains.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a broad network within the sector.
• Strategic thinking combined with hands-on execution and strong negotiation abilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute On-Trade channel strategy.
• Manage relationships with National Managed On-Trade and Pub Groups.
• Take responsibility for the channel P&L.
• Work cross-functionally to meet priorities and targets; gather market insights to inform decisions.

Skills

Strong commercial acumen

Excellent interpersonal skills

Strategic thinking

Presentation and negotiation abilities

Presentation & negotiation

Education

WSET Level 2 Spirits training (preferred)

Job description

A fantastic opportunity has arisen for an experienced National Account Controller to join a leading spirits group, focusing on the On-Trade and Pub Group sector. This role offers an exciting chance to drive growth and build strong partnerships with key national accounts.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the On-Trade channel strategy, working closely with the UK Commercial Director and Marketing team
• Manage existing and create new relationships with National Managed On-Trade and Pub Groups
• Lead responses to National On-Trade tenders and drive volume through distribution, promotions, and NPD launches
• Take responsibility for the channel P&L and manage agreed budgets, including trading terms and A&P investment
• Work cross-functionally to ensure optimal delivery against agreed priorities and targets
• Gather market insights and competitor information to inform strategic decisions

The Ideal Candidate

We're seeking an experienced professional with a proven track record in the drinks industry. The successful candidate will have:

• Experience in the drinks industry, with exposure to senior customer management in National Managed On-Trade and Pub Groups
• Strong commercial acumen and ability to build complex, profitable value chains
• Excellent interpersonal skills and a broad network of contacts within the sector
• Strategic thinking capabilities combined with hands‑on execution skills
• Strong presentation, communication, and negotiation abilities
• WSET Level 2 Spirits training preferred but not essential

Location

National Based - with travel to Scotland HQ required 2 × week

Package

This role offers an excellent opportunity for a driven individual to make a significant impact in a growing, dynamic organisation. If you're ready to take on this challenge and drive success in the On-Trade channel, we'd love to hear from you.