What is the biggest challenge facing the sector?
During the middle of 2019, nobody would have anticipated the profound effect Covid-19 would have across, not only the beverage industry, but across all sectors.
Whilst many industries experienced a slump in business, on the contrary, the alcoholic beverage industry experienced a significant spike. Alongside the surge in new distillery start-ups and a push for greater holding inventory in cask, the Covid Hangover has emerged. This has created a fiercely competitive marketplace with a greater number of brands playing across a more contracted and somewhat clogged-up market. Excess inventories are putting a squeeze on companies’ profits, and consumers are being more cautious with their spending habits.
However, opportunities are there for the taking, and with the superb innovation, creativity and exceptional quality evident within our sector, the industry will bounce back from this period of uncertainty.
How do you keep your team motivated despite conflicts and obstacles?
Our team is crucial to our success. Whilst we all have our own individual strengths – collaboration is the key to reaching and exceeding our goals. I actively listen to understand my team’s needs and interests, beyond just business goals.
I promote an empowering environment – focusing on results, continuous learning, and professional development, while recognising the importance of work-life balance. Leading by example is the key.
Waterford Distillery is built on honesty, integrity, and trust. I share these values with my team. By living these principles, we gain respect and navigate challenges more effectively.
Who do you look up to for inspiration or mentorship?
How do you generate great ideas in your organisation?
With awareness – both within and outside the organisation. We share these insights with colleagues and business associates. Waterford has been progressive in introducing under-developed concepts like Biodynamic Whisky and Irish Peated Malt. We integrate terroir practices into whisky production and distillation. Open and active dialogue across departments has brought these concepts to life.
What are the most important traits to look for when you're hiring?
Honesty, integrity and trustworthiness. All of which are central to the core of our business. Treat other’s as you wish to be treated yourself.
What’s the most important risk you took and why?
One professional choice is electing to progress down the route of Hybrid-Self-Import across the US territory. The US market, under the three-tier system, is complex and time-consuming to set up and navigate, not to mention expensive. While we’re still in the early stages of building our business under this approach, good progress is being made in this lucrative spirits territory.
Talk to Denholm
If you’d like to speak to us about your journey to leadership, growing your team, or even switching careers, please get in touch on 03303 359 818 today. Thank you.