Sponsored article: Celebrating influential women across the drinks industry

Jesme Wales

Key Account Manager with Edrington UK 

How long have you been in the industry?

I’ve been in the hospitality industry on and off for the past six years. I started off in hospitality at The Clydeside Distillery before moving into supply chain side of things within the whisky industry. I then joined the advocacy team at Edrington before moving into my current position as Key Account Manager for the West of Scotland.

What is the best thing about working in the licensed trade?

100% the people in it. I absolutely love working with the On Trade in my region of Glasgow and West of Scotland. From local heroes to 5-star hotels and Michelin star restaurants, it’s incredible to work with people who are passionate about delivering exceptional, fun and unpretentious Scottish hospitality.

What challenges have you faced as a women working in the industry?

This isn’t strictly a challenge but I’ve really enjoyed finding my style in what I do, especially now within a sales role. Authenticity really is everything whilst connecting with customers face to face.

I think we all have the occasional wobble now and again; maybe sometimes doubting your abilities but I’m very fortunate to be surrounded by amazing colleagues and connections within the industry who are always so supportive.

Who has been the most influential mentor in your career so far, and what did you learn from them?

When it comes to mentoring, I can’t not mention the OurWhisky Foundation Programme. I completed the mentorship in 2023 and although a lot has happened since then, the mentorship programme isn’t something that’s done and dusted, I’m still in that continuous journey of personal and professional growth. Becky Paskin and Millie Milliken have really created something truly unique and meaningful.

In terms of an influential mentor, it’s impossible to choose one person but a few names definitely come to mind. OurWhisky Foundation connected me with both John Laurie, Manager Director of The Glenturret and Sietse Offringa, Regional Education Manager for The Macallan who both helped to open doors and encouraged me to grow my network within the industry.

David Miles, Senior Portfolio Brand Ambassador at Suntory Global Spirits UK, is an absolute fountain of knowledge when it comes to anything whisky and the art of presentation skills; and David Allan, Prestige Sales Manager at Edrington UK, has taught me an incredible amount about sales and negotiation in the On Trade and how to lead with my own style.

What advice would you give a young woman starting out in hospitality in 2026?

Get out there and network and don’t be afraid to ask for mentorship opportunities. I also believe authenticity is key in anything you do.

Find Jesme on Instagram @jesme_edringtonuk