Open to opportunities

Diana Pickard

@dianapickard

Message

Dynamic District Manager driving growth in the beverage industry.

United States

Message

What I'm looking for

I am seeking a role that fosters collaboration and innovation, with opportunities for growth and impact.

I am a results-driven District Manager with extensive experience in the beverage industry, specializing in sales and marketing execution. Over my career, I have successfully led initiatives that resulted in significant growth, including a 10% increase in overall business in the Illinois market in 2023. My ability to develop strong relationships with key accounts and deliver impactful presentations has been instrumental in achieving and exceeding KPIs.

Throughout my tenure, I have managed budgets, overseen sampling programs, and coordinated large-scale events that showcase our brands. My strategic approach to market analysis and competitive pricing has led to remarkable success, such as a 200% increase for our home market brand, FEW. I thrive in collaborative environments, working closely with teams and partners to drive profitability and brand visibility.

In addition to my professional achievements, I am passionate about giving back to the community, serving as a board member for the Michael J. Fox Foundation. I believe in the power of teamwork and creativity to achieve extraordinary results, and I am excited to bring my expertise to new challenges in the beverage industry.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

District Manager

Current

Campari America

Jan 2019 - Present (6 years 7 months)

Responsible for ensuring the execution of sales and marketing plans for National and Regional KPIs within the IL market. Grew overall business in the IL market by 10% in 2023, with Aperol up 44%, and Espolon up 48%.

Sales Management Marketing Planning KPIs Account Management Budget Management Event Management Distributor Relations Business Development Negotiation Strategic Planning

State Manager

Samson & Surrey

May 2018 - Jan 2019 (8 months)

Created and advanced an independent craft spirits portfolio of 5 brands, with responsibility for continued growth through day-to-day execution of the market sales plan. Hired, managed, and trained a team of 5 brand ambassadors who activated in key accounts, events, and in-store tastings.

Portfolio Management Sales Planning Budget Management ROI Tracking Inventory Management Team Leadership Distributor Relations Business Development Market Analysis

Illinois Market Manager

Samson & Surrey

May 2017 - May 2018 (1 year)

Developed relationships and identified new business opportunities in Illinois with on and off-premise clients. Analyzed market trends to develop competitive pricing, programming, and incentives, leading to portfolio growth of 50% overall.

Business Development Client Relationship Management Market Analysis Pricing Strategy Program Development Sales Growth Negotiation Account Management Strategic Partnerships Sales Forecasting

Key Account Manager

Remy-Cointreau USA

Feb 2016 - May 2017 (1 year 3 months)

Established relationships with 75+ key on-premise accounts to drive distribution sales, improve visibility, and activate the luxury Remy portfolio. Built and fostered a partnership with a large on-premise local bar group, developing the largest on-premise Cointreau account in the country.

Account Management Distribution Client Relationship Management Sales Growth Portfolio Management Event Promotion

Sales Consultant

Wirtz Beverage Illinois

Jun 2013 - Feb 2016 (2 years 8 months)

Customized sales and marketing programs for an assigned territory of 100 accounts to increase product visibility and sales. Grew territory 14% in the first year, earning salesperson of the month six times and finishing second in overall revenue and growth for the year.

Territory Management Sales Growth Concept Selling Beverage Menu Optimization Competitive Analysis Customer Relationship Management

Head Bartender

Poag Mahone

Nov 2007 - Jun 2013 (5 years 7 months)

Responsible for all bar operations, including interviewing and training staff members in a fast-paced, high-volume establishment. Oversaw booking and execution of private events both on and off-premise.

Bar Operations Staff Training Event Management Customer Service Inventory Management Problem Solving Team Leadership

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

University of Phoenix

Bachelor of Science, Business Communication

Completed a Bachelor of Science in Business Communication. This program provided a comprehensive understanding of business principles and effective communication strategies.

Second City Training Center

Improvisation Program, Improvisation

Completed Level A-E Improvisation Class and Level 1-6 Improvisation Conservatory Program. This training focused on developing skills in improvisational theater and performance.