How Fiona Progressed to Brand Manager in Just Two Years

I was doing a similar job in another drinks company, and when I saw the job advert for Belhaven Brewery I was interested in the chance to work at a local brewery.

I joined the company as Marketing Executive for Belhaven Brewery in October 2020, which was the period between lockdowns 1 and 2.  After two periods of furlough, I was back working full-time in May 2021.  At this stage, I started the project of renovating/opening the Belhaven Visitor Experience, which opened in November 2021.  As part of this project, I created the tour route, sourced all merchandise for the shop and advertised our brewery tour.  I also helped with all of the day-to-day marketing tasks for our Belhaven Beers, as well as managing social media. 

In December 2021, I was promoted to Brand Manager for Belhaven Brewery. Since then, I have travelled to New York twice to represent the brewery at New York Tartan Week (which we sponsor). Our visitor experience was awarded Brewery Attraction of the Year at the World Beer Awards 2022. Throughout 2022, I kickstarted some NPD and rebrand projects (Twisted Thistle), managed several events including sponsoring Fringe by the Sea, Dunbar Music Festival and the renovation of the Belhaven Horsebox. I also worked in partnership with Loch Lomond Whiskies during The Open at St Andrews, promoting our beer/their whisky in Belhaven/Greene King and free trade pubs in the area. In May 2023, I delivered the rebrand project of Scotland's Number One Ale - Belhaven BEST. 

Currently, I'm excited to be working on the rebrand project of Scotland's Number One stout - Belhaven BLACK, and our sponsorship of the Edinburgh Fringe Mound Precinct area.

Having only had 2 years of marketing experience prior to joining Greene King, I have been extremely lucky to lead some very large projects so early on in my career. Although it's been extremely challenging and I've felt out of my depth at times, my manager has given me the confidence and guidance to step up in my career and take on these projects.

Greene King has recognised my efforts and contributions, by promoting me to Brand Manager.

I enjoy going in to outlets and seeing the branding/merchandise that I've helped to create, being enjoyed in pubs etc.

Go for it!