Premium spirits importer and distributer, Mangrove UK, has appointed Chris Pollard to the post of On Trade Sales Director. Chris joined the company in April 2019 as South Sales Manager, looking after key accounts and managing the Southern team.
In his new role Chris will lead the delivery of all key account sales to the bar and restaurant trade, managing a UK wide team of nine sales experts that make up one of the most professional sales forces in the industry. His focus will be on continuing to grow both market share and market depth, as well as on coaching and development of the team.
His appointment reflects Mangrove UK’s ethos of promoting from within, as Chris builds on the terrific contribution of Becky Davies, who is leaving the company after six years.
Commenting on the appointment, Chris said:
“Mangrove UK is about delivering great products to the industry with first class service. I’m looking forward to bringing my personality and talents to this role, and am delighted to embrace this unexpected opportunity.”
Nick Gillett, Managing Director, added:
“After an extensive recruitment process, I couldn’t be more pleased to find that we had the ideal candidate in our midst. Chris’ strategy for growth, supportive management and brand owner engagement proved compelling. I am always pleased when we can promote from within as it proves our original recruitment process was effective and highlights that there are opportunities for promotion as we expand.
All of us at Team Purple wish Becky the very best. She has been a tremendous asset at Mangrove UK and we will look on with supportive interest as she continues her spirited career.”
Chris brings a wealth of experience and knowledge of the London bar scene after his on trade roles for Maverick Drinks and Marussia Beverages. His early experience behind the bar in Manchester gives Chris a great understanding of how best to activate brands through partnership working with bartenders, not to mention being a winner at many competitions.
Premium spirts importer and distributor Mangrove UK, has enjoyed five years of continuous growth and manages over 20 global premium drinks brands in the UK spanning whisky, vodka, rum, pisco, cognac and liqueurs, several of which are top 10 bestselling brands in 2019.