David G.
About me
| David G. | |
| History | |
| History | |
| Undergraduate | |
| Alcuin | |
| 1987 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| CEO, Direct Wines | |
| Direct Wines | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Retail and sales | |
| Large business (250+ employees) | |
| 2020 |
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A day in the life of a CEO, Direct Wines in the United Kingdom
Embrace extra curricular activities. I gained more transferable skills from my experience in the Boat Club and AU than from my degree.
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
Direct Wines is the owner of Laithwaites and is the largest DTC wine retailer in the UK and also has businesses in the US & Australia
What do you do?
As CEO I have accountability for the total performance of the business as well as setting the strategic direction for the future
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
Strong brand building skills through a career in marketing
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
I had absolutely no idea what I wanted to do when I graduated
Describe your most memorable day at work
Too many to mention
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
Too many to mention
What’s your work environment and culture like?
Quite informal. Hybrid working as a norm. Very caring environment
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
I was Captain of rowing and Secretary of the Athletic Union. Good early experience at leading an organisation, fund raising and budget management
What would you like to do next with your career?
Probably NED type work
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
Embrace extra curricular activities. I gained more transferable skills from my experience in the Boat Club and AU than from my degree.
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
Marketing. General management
Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
I was at Diageo for 27 years and worked in Brazil, Singapore, Tokyo and the Netherlands while there. So happy to give advice on international careers.
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