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    Education and MentoringMentoring

    Knowledge in the spirits industry has long been passed from one generation to the next. Our mentoring programme continues that in a one-to-one relationship.

    Become a menteeBecome a mentor

    Experience shared in conversation

    We connect students, emerging distillers and developing professionals with members of the Livery. Mentors share practical experience, an independent view and encouragement as a mentee works towards their goals.

    A growing network

    Launched in 2021, the programme had almost 50 ongoing mentoring relationships by 2025, supported by experienced volunteers from across the Livery.

    Mentors come from many parts of the spirits industry and may be based in the UK or overseas. Mentees enter the programme through our education partnerships, bursaries, Business of Spirits seminars and related vocational training activity.

    How mentoring works

    We consider a mentee’s aims, experience and the kind of guidance they need, then look for a mentor whose knowledge and background make a useful match.

    Once introduced, the mentor and mentee agree their priorities and a practical way to stay in contact. The relationship supports development. It does not replace formal teaching, consultancy or line management.

    Topics might include:

    • making the transition from study into work;
    • understanding possible roles and career pathways;
    • building confidence and a professional network;
    • developing a distillery or new product idea;
    • leadership, communication and commercial awareness; or
    • approaching a specific professional challenge.

    MentoringTake part

    You can apply as a mentee or volunteer as a mentor.

    • Become a mentee

      Mentoring is a focused space to think, ask questions and learn from someone with relevant experience. A mentor will not make decisions for you, but they can help you see your options more clearly and decide what to do next.

      Become a mentee

    • Become a mentor

      Mentoring is a direct way for Freemen and Liverymen to pass on knowledge and help people developing a career in the industry. You do not need to have followed one particular career path. The programme needs experience across technical, operational, commercial and leadership roles.

      Become a mentor

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