Inside Scotch Whisky Careers: Authentic Voices & Human Journeys

When I spoke to Nicola McRedmond, I asked her to describe working in the Scotch Whisky industry in just three words, she replied: “Human. Brave. Authentic.” I don’t think she could have chosen more apt words.

Nicola is the Founder of DrinkAbility, a recruitment and coaching business she launched in 2017 after spending 20 years working in recruitment. Today, she focuses her energy on the global drinks industry, with a particular focus on the Scotch Whisky sector.

Nicola has grown her business during a period of significant change for the industry. Market conditions have affected confidence and hiring plans, creating a lot of uncertainty. At the same time, Nicola has noticed something encouraging: more open, honest conversations about careers, progression, and long-term sustainability than ever before.

Like many people working in Scotch Whisky, Nicola didn’t take a traditional route into the industry. Unsure of her direction when she left school, her love of English led her to study English Literature at the University of Glasgow. Glasgow was a fertile training ground and, alongside her studies, she made the most of the city’s vibrant hospitality scene, gaining what she jokes was her most “relevant studying” behind bars and on restaurant floors.

Nicola clearly remembers how intimidating the job market felt early in her career. “Networking wasn’t explained, mentorship wasn’t common, and asking for help could feel like weakness,” she recalls. The atmosphere was very much “survival of the fittest”, with people battling for every pay rise or promotion.

Fast forward to today, and there’s far more acceptance that careers don’t follow a straight line. Side steps, pivots, portfolio careers, and career breaks are no longer taboo – in fact, they’re often seen as strengths. While the whisky industry may have been slower than some to embrace this shift, especially around people strategy, change is happening. And it has to.

I asked Nicola to draw on her experience and share some advice for jobseekers thinking about moving into, or within, the Scotch Whisky industry. Here are her top tips:

• Sell yourself properly and let your skills and experience shine.
• If a role excites you, go for it. Don’t wait until you feel 100% “ready”.
• Confidence usually comes after action, not before it.
• Get out there. Whisky is a consumer product – it’s meant to be seen, tasted, and shared. Whatever path you’re aiming for, immerse yourself in the industry.
• Stay curious. Asking questions and committing to constant learning are real strengths, especially in an industry as generous with knowledge as whisky.
• Show up. Whisky is a community. People are warm, welcoming, and generous with introductions. Sitting behind a laptop sending CVs won’t cut it – go to tastings, festivals, clubs, and events. Whisky people don’t bite; they pour you a dram and tell you a story. That’s how doors open.

Looking ahead, Nicola feels both excited about the future and reflective about her journey so far. She believes careers are built through people, not job titles, and encourages others to be brave and take considered risks. As she puts it: “Trust your instincts. If something feels right, it probably is. Great opportunities rarely come from playing it safe, and overthinking is often the biggest blocker to progress.”

If you’d like to find out more, and see some of the roles Nicola is currently recruiting for, please see here.