Stephen Buckley

About me

I was born/grew up in: Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada

I now live in: Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada

I completed my training/education at: Bachelor of Commerce and Drama Studies at Mount Allison University.

What I do at work

I oversee the operation of the Moosehead onsite Small Batch Brewery Taproom in Saint John, NB and Moosehead's Cold Beer Store in Dartmouth, NS. Customers are able to purchase and taste Moosehead beer. They are also able to explore the brewery on guided brewery tours and shop Moosehead merchandise.

I work directly with senior leadership to develop, align and execute business plans for our retail stores. I am responsible for reporting and analyzing sales data, working alongside marketing to develop marketing plans and growth strategies. I’m also involved in managing product inventory, hiring and managing staff. With the Small Batch Brewery Taproom and for the brewery tours, I’m responsible for educating staff on brewing and packaging processes, leading staff through tasting and product knowledge sessions and planning events to drive traffic and engagement. I use math and technology every day at work. Mostly this is for analyzing sales data, responding to emails, and using the backend management software for our online brewery tour booking application. I also use science knowledge most days talking to my staff and consumers about the beer making process.

My career path is

I have always been interested in leadership and involved in leadership initiatives throughout high school and university. I enjoyed these activities but didn’t know where that would take me. All I knew was that I wanted to lead people and projects. An opportunity at Moosehead became available as I was graduating university and I went for it. Since starting, I have worked on fresh new projects like the brewery tour program and the taproom we recently opened. My willingness to work hard, dive into uncharted territories and move projects forward has gotten me where I am today.

I am motivated by

The opportunity for growth and development motivates me. I am always keen to learn new things, take on new responsibilities and work in areas out of my comfort zone. This is what I enjoy the most about my job. I am continuously learning about the entire business. I also take on new responsibilities where I can improve the way something is done or add value. Having those opportunities is incredibly motivating as a young professional and that is why I know I am in the right place.

How I affect peoples’ lives

In business, every touch point with a consumer is important. This is especially true when that touch point is visiting the brewery where the product they consume is made each day. Making sure they feel welcome and satisfied with their experience is crucial to the success of our retail operations.

Outside of work I

I really enjoy playing golf. During the golf season, you will typically find me at the course after work and on the weekend. I play both recreationally and competitively. I’m also interested in music, theatre and many other arts. I play a few instruments, sing and perform from time to time.

My advice to others

Allow yourself to come out of your comfort zone to learn new things.