Hello! I created a thread about 3 months ago asking for guidance on how to go about starting a career in beer. I got some great advice and what I took away from it was that I needed to narrow in on what I really wanted to do in the beer world. I've recently decided that I think the path that I am best suited for/want to pursue the most, is that of a beer rep or brewery rep. With that being said, I wanted to see if anyone here on BA that is currently a rep had any advice on where to go from here. A little about me: 24 years old No kids, no wife, no mortgage Finishing my bachelors degree (not a business major) I have strong restaurant/serving experience. Pretty strong overall beer knowledge. Certified Beer Server through the Cicerone program. (Plan on taking the Certified Cicerone exam shortly after I graduate.) Not an avid homebrewer but have some experience. Basically what I'm looking for is any advice that you wish you would've had when you were starting your career and what are the best steps I can take to make myself marketable for the job. Also, if there are any other jobs that you might think would go well with my skill set, please let me know! If there are any certified cicerones reading this, feel free to give any advice for preparing for the exam as well as how it might have helped you in your career. Also looking for what the day to day looks like for a rep. I've got a good idea but I want to hear from as many people as possible. Cheers!
I am not a beer rep, but have a number of friends who are, or are looking to be - all of them came up through the retail side, first as a floor worker/stock guy, then were promoted as the beer buyer in a liquor store. Gave them a really solid understanding of the retail side of the beer world, which is a basic requirement to then sell into that space.
I managed a store (bought beer/wine/liquor) for a while, and tons of people move between retailers and distributors. that said, unless you want to do delivery, its probably easiest to get a job with a retailer first.
start now part time as a merchandiser for a large distributor learn how big beer & craft beer work from the distribution level. & work your way up. i am now a craft brand manager for a large distributor within 6 months starting at the bottom level. competivness & hard work.............
