Retail Market Manager at Still Austin Whiskey Co – Houston, Texas

About Still Austin Whiskey Co

Still Austin is the first true grain-to-glass distillery to open in Austin since the end of Prohibition. We are one of the fastest-growing craft whiskey brands in the United States, building a whiskey that is unapologetically Texas.

As we continue to scale, our focus remains the same: create exceptional whiskey, build meaningful relationships, and show up in market in a way that reflects who we are.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Retail Market Manager is responsible for driving retail sales performance and expanding Still Austin’s presence across the Greater Houston market. This role blends strategic market development with hands-on execution, ensuring strong distribution, impactful retail presence, and sustained volume growth.

Success in this role requires a deep understanding of the Greater Houston market, the ability to build strong distributor and account relationships, and a proactive approach to identifying opportunities that grow both brand visibility and revenue.

SUCCESS PROFILE

To be successful in this role, the Retail Market Manager will:

Market Ownership
Operate as the face of Still Austin in the Greater Houston retail market, with strong knowledge of local dynamics, key players, and growth opportunities.

Relationship Depth
Build trust quickly with distributor partners and key accounts, creating long-term partnerships that drive mutual success.

Strategic Execution
Balance big-picture thinking with consistent in-market execution across accounts, programming, and events.

Accountability for Results
Track performance closely, identifies gaps, and takes action to drive volume and distribution growth.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Market Development & Analysis

• Identifies key opportunities, trends, and competitive dynamics within the East Texas retail market
• Prioritizes focus on high-volume accounts, strategic placements, and new account acquisition
• Maintains visibility into market performance through consistent tracking of KPIs and account-level activity

Distributor Partnership

• Builds strong, collaborative relationships with Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits sales teams
• Establishes Still Austin as a trusted and strategic supplier through consistent communication, ride-alongs, and joint planning
• Drives brand advocacy through education and in-market engagement

Sales Strategy & Execution

• Develops and executes retail sales strategies that increase market share, revenue, and brand presence
• Expands distribution across key retail accounts and ensures strong shelf positioning and visibility
• Identifies and activates opportunities for growth within existing accounts

Relationship Management

• Cultivates and maintains strong relationships with key retail buyers and decision-makers
• Partners with distributor teams and retail accounts to align on goals, promotions, and programming
• Represents Still Austin in market as a knowledgeable and reliable brand partner

Customer Engagement & Education

• Provides product education and training to retail partners and distributor teams
• Collaborates with accounts to create tailored solutions that drive sell-through
• Ensures consistent and compelling brand storytelling at the point of sale

Performance Tracking & Reporting

• Monitors sales performance and market trends
• Prepares regular reporting and provides insights to leadership
• Uses data to inform decisions and adjust strategy in real time

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Events

• Partners with marketing and field marketing teams to execute events and in-store activations
• Identifies opportunities for merchandising, promotions, and consumer engagement
• Supports brand presence through tastings, events, and key market moments

Compliance

• Ensures all retail sales activities align with industry regulations and compliance standards
• Maintains adherence to distributor and state-level guidelines

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must reside in the Greater Houston area
• Bachelor’s degree in Business or related field, or equivalent experience
• 5-7 years of experience in sales, brand management, or territory management within beverage, CPG, or a related industry
• Strong track record of achieving or exceeding sales targets
• Experience working with distributor networks, preferably Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits or similar
• Deep familiarity with the Greater Houston market preferred
• Excellent relationship-building, communication, and negotiation skills
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize effectively
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret sales data and market trends
• Self-starter with a proactive approach to identifying and acting on opportunities
• Passion for spirits, hospitality, or the beverage industry preferred
• Ability to travel regularly within the Greater Houston market

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This role requires the ability to:

• Travel frequently within the Greater Houston market
• Stand for extended periods during retail visits, tastings, and events
• Lift and transport product, materials, or display items up to 40 pounds
• Work evenings and weekends as needed to support events and market activity
• Navigate retail environments, storage areas, and event spaces