Beer Wine and Spirits Purchasing Manager

Premium Liquor Store; Easton (MD); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus based on performance

Competitive salary

Dental insurance

Employee discounts

Flexible schedule

Free uniforms

Health insurance

Opportunity for advancement

Paid time off

Relocation bonus

Training & development

Vision insurance

Job summary

Premium Liquor Store in Easton, Maryland, is seeking a Beer, Wine & Spirits Purchasing Manager. This role entails curating a premium selection, managing vendor relations, and ensuring optimal inventory. The ideal candidate should have over 3 years of buying experience in luxury retail, deep knowledge of the beverage industry, and excellent negotiation skills. The position promises a competitive salary with additional benefits including health insurance, bonuses, and employee discounts.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of buying experience in premium or luxury retail.
• Strong knowledge of fine wine, craft beer, and premium spirits.
• Proven ability to analyze sales data effectively.

Responsibilities

• Curate and manage a premium selection of beer, wine, and spirits.
• Build and maintain relationships with distributors and suppliers.
• Monitor inventory levels and optimize margins.

Skills

Buying experience in beer, wine, and spirits

Negotiation skills

Strong communication skills

Product knowledge

Inventory management

Education

WSET Certification

Certified Sommelier

Cicerone Certification

Job description

Benefits

• Bonus based on performance
• Competitive salary
• Dental insurance
• Employee discounts
• Flexible schedule
• Free uniforms
• Health insurance
• Opportunity for advancement
• Paid time off
• Relocation bonus
• Training & development
• Vision insurance

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly knowledgeable and passionate Beer, Wine & Spirits Purchasing Manager to curate and manage a world‑class selection for our upscale retail environment. This role is responsible for sourcing exceptional products, maintaining strong vendor relationships, and delivering a differentiated, premium assortment that reflects both global trends and local demand.

The ideal candidate has a refined palate, deep product knowledge, and a strong understanding of the evolving beverage landscape, paired with a sharp business mindset.

Key Responsibilities

• Product Curation & Purchasing
  • Develop and maintain a best‑in‑class assortment of beer, wine, and spirits, with a focus on quality, uniqueness, and margin performance
  • Source products from domestic and international suppliers, including limited releases, allocated items, and private barrels
  • Identify emerging trends and proactively adjust inventory to stay ahead of market demand
  • Manage all purchasing, including order placement, pricing strategy, and vendor negotiations
• Vendor & Supplier Relations
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with distributors, wineries, breweries, and distilleries
  • Negotiate pricing, allocations, and promotional opportunities
  • Coordinate tastings, staff trainings, and in‑store events with brand partners
• Inventory & Financial Management
  • Monitor inventory levels, turnover rates, and product performance
  • Optimize margins while maintaining a premium, competitive selection
  • Analyze sales data to make informed purchasing decisions
  • Minimize out‑of‑stocks and overstock situations
• In‑Store Experience & Merchandising
  • Collaborate on store layout and merchandising to create a visually compelling, high‑end shopping experience
  • Ensure shelves are well‑stocked, organized, and aligned with brand standards
  • Develop educational materials, signage, and tasting notes for customers
• Customer Engagement & Expertise
  • Serve as a subject matter expert for customers and staff
  • Provide recommendations and elevate the customer experience through product knowledge and storytelling
  • Assist with high‑end client needs, including cellar building, gifting, and event planning

Qualifications

• 3+ years of buying experience in beer, wine, and/or spirits (premium or luxury retail preferred)
• Strong knowledge across all categories, including fine wine, craft beer, and premium/allocated spirits
• Established relationships within the distribution and supplier network preferred
• Proven ability to analyze sales data and manage inventory effectively
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills
• Passion for hospitality and delivering an exceptional customer experience

Preferred Certifications (not required but a plus)

• WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) Certification
• Certified Sommelier or equivalent
• Cicerone Certification