Beer Program Director

Benefits: Competitive salary Employee discounts Flexible schedule Free uniforms Opportunity for advancement Paid time off Training & development Position Overview We are seeking a knowledgeable and forward-thinking Beer Buyer to lead and curate an exceptional craft and specialty beer program for our high-end retail store. This role is responsible for building a dynamic, differentiated selection that balances highly sought-after releases, regional standouts, and everyday premium offerings. The ideal candidate is deeply connected to the craft beer industry, understands evolving trends, and brings both a passion for the category and a strong business mindset. Key Responsibilities Product Selection & Purchasing Curate a best-in-class craft and specialty beer assortment, including local, regional, national, and international offerings Source limited releases, seasonal drops, and hard-to-find products to create excitement and drive traffic Maintain a balanced mix of flagship, rotating, and high-margin items Manage all purchasing decisions, including order quantities, timing, and pricing strategy Vendor & Brewery Relationships Build and maintain strong relationships with distributors, breweries, and sales representatives Negotiate pricing, allocations, and exclusive or limited offerings Stay closely connected to new releases, trends, and opportunities within the craft beer market Inventory & Category Management Monitor inventory levels, freshness, and product rotation (critical in beer) Track sales performance, margins, and turnover to inform buying decisions Minimize shrink, out-of-stocks, and aging inventory Ensure proper storage and handling standards are maintained Merchandising & In-Store Experience Design and maintain an engaging, easy-to-shop beer section that reflects a premium retail experience Highlight new arrivals, seasonal features, and staff picks Collaborate on signage, cold box organization, and promotional displays Customer Experience & Education Serve as the in-store expert on beer, assisting customers with recommendations and discovery Educate staff on products, styles, and selling points Participate in tastings, events, and brewery partnerships to enhance customer engagement Qualifications 2–5+ years of experience in beer buying, craft beer retail, or distribution Strong knowledge of craft beer styles, breweries, and industry trends Existing relationships within the beer distribution network preferred Understanding of inventory management, margin strategy, and product lifecycle (freshness) Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills Passion for craft beer and delivering a high-end customer experience Preferred (but not required): Cicerone Certification (Certified Beer Server or higher) Experience managing a high-volume or premium retail beer program