Director of Spirits

Premium Liquor Store; Easton (MD); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

Performance bonus

Company events

Competitive pay

Dental insurance

Employee discount

Flexible schedule

Free uniforms

Health insurance

Advancement opportunities

Paid time off

Relocation bonus

Training & development

Vision insurance

Job summary

Premium Liquor Store in Maryland is seeking a Liquor Buyer to curate a premium spirits program across bourbon, whiskey, tequila, vodka, gin, and rum. The role emphasizes sourcing limited releases and building a best-in-class selection.

The ideal candidate will manage purchasing decisions, optimize margins, cultivate distributor partnerships, and lead in-store storytelling with a premium presentation for high-end customers.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in spirits buying or liquor retail.
• Strong knowledge across bourbon, whiskey, tequila.
• Proven ability with allocated products and limited releases.
• Established distributor relationships preferred.
• Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a premium spirits selection including allocated and high-demand products.
• Source limited releases and exclusive offerings.
• Manage purchasing decisions, pricing strategy, and margins.
• Build relationships with distributors and distilleries.
• Monitor inventory and maximize profitability.
• Design and maintain premium in-store spirits presentation.
• Educate customers and train staff on product knowledge.

Skills

Spirits buying

Liquor retail experience

Analytical skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Job description

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Bonus based on performance
• Company parties
• 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 strategic Liquor Buyer to lead the curation and growth of our premium spirits program. This role is responsible for building a best-in-class assortment of bourbon, whiskey, tequila, vodka, gin, rum, and emerging categories - balancing highly allocated products with strong core performers.

The ideal candidate has deep category expertise, strong distributor relationships, and a proven ability to drive both revenue and excitement through thoughtful buying.

Key Responsibilities

Product Curation & Purchasing

• Develop and maintain a top-tier spirits selection, with a focus on premium, allocated, and high-demand products
• Source limited releases, private barrels, and exclusive offerings to differentiate the store
• Build a balanced assortment across everyday staples, premium upgrades, and ultra-high-end items
• Manage all purchasing decisions, including order planning, pricing strategy, and margin optimization

Vendor & Distillery Relationships

• Build and maintain strong relationships with distributors, distilleries, and brand representatives
• Negotiate pricing, allocations, and exclusive opportunities (including private barrel selections)
• Stay informed on new product launches, trends, and category innovations

Inventory & Financial Performance

• Monitor inventory levels, sell-through rates, and product performance
• Analyze sales data to make informed buying decisions and maximize profitability
• Manage product lifecycle, ensuring proper flow of high-end and allocated inventory
• Minimize out-of-stocks while avoiding overstock on slow-moving items

Merchandising & Store Presentation

• Design and maintain a premium, visually compelling spirits section
• Highlight key categories such as bourbon, tequila, and high-end whiskey
• Collaborate on signage, displays, and in-store storytelling to elevate the shopping experience

Customer Experience & Expertise

• Serve as the in-store expert on spirits, assisting customers with recommendations and education
• Support high-end clientele with collection building, gifting, and special orders
• Train staff on product knowledge, upselling techniques, and category trends

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in spirits buying, liquor retail, or distribution
• Strong knowledge across major spirits categories, especially bourbon/whiskey and tequila
• Proven experience working with allocated products and limited releases
• Established distributor and supplier relationships preferred
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to manage margins and inventory effectively
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills

Preferred (but not required):

• Experience with private barrel selection programs
• Industry certifications or advanced spirits education