What are the responsibilities and job description for the Beer Distribution Area Manager position at Lariat Lodge Brewing?
Distribution Area Manager – Lariat Lodge Brewing Company
Location: Evergreen & Littleton, CO | Job Type: Full-Time | Travel: Up to 75%
About Lariat Lodge Brewing Company
At Lariat Lodge Brewing Company, we blend the rustic charm of a mountain lodge with the bold character of craft beer. With locations in Evergreen and Littleton, Colorado, our brewery is a growing community cornerstone where locals and visitors alike gather for high-quality beer, great food, and a welcoming atmosphere. We pride ourselves on brewing a wide selection of exceptional ales and lagers, crafted on-site and served fresh from the source. Our commitment to quality, hospitality, and innovation has helped Lariat Lodge become one of Colorado’s most beloved independent breweries.
About Our Distribution Program
Lariat Lodge Brewing Company operates a high-capacity brewing system capable of producing up to 5,000 barrels annually across two locations. Since launching our distribution program three years ago, we’ve built a network of over 150 retail and restaurant partners—many of whom are recurring customers. Notable accounts include all 25 Buffalo Wild Wings locations in Colorado, multiple Costco locations, and our own branded barfront at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park where the Rapids play. Our goal is to continue expanding throughout Colorado and eventually into neighboring states.
About the Role
We are seeking a dedicated, organized and self-driven Distribution Area Manager to oversee and grow our product distribution operations in a sales territory. This full-time position plays a critical role in managing the logistics of getting our beer from brewery to market while maintaining strong relationships with retail partners, bars, restaurants and wholesalers. This includes direct responsibility for key On and Off-Premise accounts, This individual must have a passion for growing brand awareness and engagement. Reporting directly to the Director of Operations and Ownership, the Distribution Manager is responsible for implementing distribution strategies, optimizing logistics, and ensuring on-time and cost-effective delivery of products as well as taking timely payments for invoices. This individual will also work closely with the brewing team to define and workshop the annual brewing calendar to define quantities for seasonal offerings, create par levels related to sales goals, and assist the company in reacting to market trends. This position includes a base salary and commission on sales.
Key Responsibilities
Logistics and Distribution Operations
- Plan and execute all transportation, delivery, and logistics strategies for packaged and kegged beer.
- Maintain inventory records and coordinate with production staff to forecast demand, delivery schedules, and presales for select beers.
- Manage storage and warehousing of product to ensure freshness, stock accuracy, and compliance with safety protocols.
- Monitor delivery times, transport costs, and route efficiency to maximize cost-effectiveness.
Sales Support & Client Relations
- Build and maintain strong relationships with retail accounts, bars, restaurants, and distributors.
- Execute sell-in meetings, tastings, product knowledge events, and staff training with clients.
- Track customer orders and maintain a clear schedule of deliveries across territories.
- Support and communicate sales goals, pricing structures, and promotion plans with accounts.
Staff & Vendor Management
- Work closely with internal teams including brewery operations, ownership, and marketing creative services to ensure alignment on sales and distribution strategy.
- Coordinate with third-party logistics vendors or drivers if applicable.
- Supervise and train any support staff or seasonal personnel assigned to distribution duties including the Assistant Distribution Manager.
Compliance & Reporting
- Ensure all deliveries comply with local and federal alcohol distribution regulations and safety standards.
- Accurately log orders, and inventory movement including tap handles and keg shells.
- Provide regular reports on sales performance, delivery metrics, customer feedback, and operational issues.
- Maintain and manage all vehicle-related compliance records (e.g., maintenance, insurance, DOT if required).
Strategic Planning
- Contribute to overall company growth through the identification of new distribution channels and partnerships.
- Analyze sales and delivery data to recommend process improvements.
- Represent Lariat Lodge Brewing Company at events, festivals, and promotional activations as needed.
Qualifications and Skills
- Must be 21 years old
- At least two years experience in brewery sales, wholesaler sales, restaurant or bar management
- Cicerone, or other Beer certification strongly preferred
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills with vendors, customers, and team members.
- Self-motivated with strong organizational and time-management abilities.
- Ability to lift 55 lbs, maneuver full ½ BBL kegs and operate a hand truck or dolly for loading/unloading.
- Proficiency with inventory software, CRMs, and Quickbooks is a plus.
- Clean driving record; must have reliable transportation.
Compensation and Benefits
- Base Salary: $40,000 - $50,000
- Commission: Outlined below
- Negotiable bonus structure
- Schedule: 40 - 45 hours required including nights and weekends when necessary. Overnight travel occasionally as defined by need.
- Cell phone allowance
- Two weeks (10 days) of Paid Time Off in your first year with a generous increase each year of employment
- Eight paid holidays per year
- Health Insurance available with significant employer contribution
- Beer, Food and Merchandise perks
Salary : $40,000 - $50,000
