Studio Manager

What we do:

Burgess Studio is a design agency based in London, specialising in whisky. We work with most of the great Scotch distilleries, and in the highly specialised area of old and rare whiskies we are the number one agency worldwide, holding four current world records for values achieved at auction, for four different distilleries.

What does this mean you are actually doing, day to day?

A lot of different things; the work is very varied. On the strategy side it’s a lot to do with discussing what whisky stock clients have actually got, and then coming up with a meaningful plan of how to release it that will benefit their wider brand. We might suggest an auction strategy, or brand / art partnerships, which we would also manage. On the design side it can be developing decanters, cases, luggage, furniture… anything that suits the application. One of the key differences about the studio is that we actually source and manage production of a lot of the things we design, as the work is so specialised and high-end. It’s a fascinating part of the job and means communicating with craftspeople in many different industries. So, at least some of the day will be spent talking to our network of makers about progress on various projects. We also commission and art-direct a lot of photography and film, so there is that to manage, as well as the usual digital work. The studio is a busy and varied place.

What is the job on offer?

We’re looking for a manager to come and help run the studio. It’s a key role, and, clichés aside, would suit a highly motivated person, as there is a lot of scope for progression. We have written a list below of the guaranteed jobs you would end up doing during the week, but it’s really the base level as the rest of it is quite unpredictable. You might end up on a train to a distillery one month and off to a bagmaker in Italy the next. The job is studio based, full time, 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

Who should apply?

The idea that whisky is only for men is a huge, boring misconception, that needs to be challenged; we are interested in ALL applicants, regardless of gender, race or orientation. And, although it would be great if you liked whisky, it really doesn’t matter if you don’t; we can teach you.

What would I be doing?

Running the weekly scheduling meeting

Managing the studio diary

Keeping the studio in good order

Ordering office supplies

Managing office maintenance suppliers

Writing up quotations, purchase orders and invoices

Managing the invoice and payment schedule

Logging receipts and expenses

Preparing paperwork for bookkeeping

Sending / Receiving parcels (this is a big one as we ship a lot of high value whisky around and it’s not always as simple as you think)

Managing stock inventory

Liaising with our clients

Updating social media

Personal assistant tasks for the directors

Skills

Degree level or equivalent education, and / or some studio management experience.

Fluent in English

Driving licence (not essential)

Programs:

Mac OS

Google Workspace

MS Office

Adobe Creative Suite (beneficial)

Xero (beneficial)