I’m James, I am 23 from Kent. I went to Oxford Brookes University where I graduated last summer studying Business and Marketing Management. The degree also involved a placement year where I worked in the Sales and Marketing department at a data center firm. Growing up I was never too sure the exact career path I wanted to pursue although a commercial career always interested me.
What is your role and how long have you been at Pernod Ricard?
My role at Pernod Ricard Is the ‘Graduate Business Development Executive’ for the South region. I joined Pernod Ricard as part of the first intake of the Commercial Graduate scheme in March 2022. We take on similar tasks as the other Business Development Executives but tend to focus on more specific campaigns. For example, I am currently mostly focusing on our Spring Spritz campaign where I am tasked with getting two of our Italian brands, Malfy and Italicus, listed in Italian Restaurants.
What inspired you to apply for this role/Pernod Ricard?
There are many reasons why I was interested in the role at Pernod Ricard. Firstly, I have always had an interest in the wine and spirits industry and have paid attention to the industries changing trends over the years. The chance to work for and represent the company’s impressive and unique premium portfolio was also very appealing to me. I was also curious to learn more about field sales as I wasn’t too sure what it meant/what it involved, although I felt like it could be the right fit for me. Lastly, the opportunity for career progressions was important to me and it became evident that Pernod Ricard could offer this once you have established and proven yourself.
What has been the single most important thing you learnt so far in your job?
The biggest thing I have learned so far is the way to manage different personalities and situations whilst out on trade. Understanding that everyone has a different character and will have different time constraints to speak to you on that day has really helped me to tailor my style, approach and proposal in the moment to fit their needs. It is for that reason that I now feel much more confident in building and maintaining relationships.
What would a ‘normal’ day look like for someone in your role?
I’d start the day working though any admin, tasks or deadlines I have left from previous days before staring to plan my day ahead in trade. I’d then research and go through the accounts that I am planning on visiting that day and start working out what I want to ask and achieve during each visit. I will then set out to go to the accounts (usually between 7-9 visits a day) to start building relationships with the bar managers and to understand their specific needs. Each call is different, and you will likely be at a different stage with each account (e.g it could be a first time visit or you could be running through a contract proposal). Once back home I’d finish off any tasks and start working through any actions that came from the day in trade.
What do you find most interesting with the sector you’re in?
The sector is constantly evolving and changing which keeps things interesting and presents different opportunities/challenges. Different spirit category’s grow/decline at different rates and times to reflect changing consumer trends so the sector is very fast paced. I have also really enjoyed learning about all our great brands and how they differ themselves to the competition.
What is the culture like?
Conviviality is at the heart of everything at Pernod Ricard. Everyone is encouraged to truly be their selves and there is always a very welcoming and inclusive atmosphere at the office. I have felt highly supported during my time at the company and have also gained a lot of exposure to different departments and more senior members of the company who have gone out of their way to speak to us graduates. It is also nice to go through the scheme with other graduates in the same position as you.
Have you had the opportunity to get involved in any activities outside work?
The whole company has just recently attended the PRUK Feel Good Fair to help support each employee with their mental fitness and to enjoy convivial moments together. The nature of the job will also mean you get to attend / help run some cool activations. For example, I recently attended an Amalfi coast inspired pop up in Shoreditch and got a tour of the Plymouth gin distillery.
How did you find the application process?
The application process was enjoyable and engaging whilst also giving you the chance to learn a lot about Pernod Ricard, their brands and the wider drinks industry overall. At times it was of course challenging, but it definitely left me feeling very excited to start at Pernod Ricard and meet the team.
Finally, any tips for anyone who’d like to apply for a role at Pernod Ricard?
I would recommend that applicants research and understand the company’s culture and 6 Leadership Attributes and be able to demonstrate how you align with them throughout the process. Research and explore Pernod Ricard and what exactly makes them different to the competition. Be curious and don’t be scared to ask questions as your definitely not meant to know everything. Lastly, be your true self and showcase your personality.