A day in the Life

Ellen Leonard Bates, strategic accounts manager for Diageo

What time do you get up on a weekday?

6.30am

Typical breakfast? Coffee and cereal

Do you commute or work from home? Mix of home, office and onsite at client meetings or events.

How long have you been in your current job?

I’ve been at Diageo almost three years.

What does a typical day at work include?

My commercial client facing role, involves composing proposals and pitching. I work across the full Diageo portfolio of spirits and beer. The vast portfolio includes world class brands like Guinness, Hop house 13, Carlsberg, Tanqueray, Baileys and Ketel One. Many of my clients are hospitality companies so my time is split between on trade meetings at pubs and work at stadia, greenfield sites for concerts and events. This time of year, it’s particularly busy for festivals and racing, later it will be more GAA and rugby. As an organisation, Diageo Ireland is leading the way with sustainability initiatives and digital evolution, so it’s an exciting time to be a part of the business. All of this means that what happens in a day at work is extremely varied!

Who is your favourite politician and why?

Locally, I admire politicians who champion on behalf of their constituents. On a global level, Jacinda Ardern has been inspirational to watch.

Who is the most annoying celebrity in your opinion? Pass!

What is the best ad (apart from the brand’s you represent)

I would honestly prefer a good book than watching tv, so not up to date with many recent ads!

Worst ad on television?

Not a fan of the bird that sings about carbon monoxide poisoning!

What is your favourite drink?

Don Julio Tequila Blanco and amaretto with fresh lemon juice and lime juice stirred down over cubed ice.

If you had to pick three famous people to have a drink with, who would they be?

Professor Brian Cox for fascinating chats.

Melissa Mc Carthy for a good laugh.

Karren Brady for career inspiration.

Favourite no/low brand on the market?

Seedlip.

Favourite pub in Ireland and abroad? Very mood dependent, but if I was looking for a quiet pint - upstairs in Nearys or Stags Head. For a delicious cocktail - Bar 1661. For the craic - Bonobo. Live music in Cobblestone or Bad Bobs and latenight dancing - Ukiyo or 37.

Abroad, I recently went on a cocktail research trip to London, and I loved Satan’s Whiskers.

Best pub for grub?

French toast for breakfast in Searsons, Salad for lunch in the garden at House. For dinner, chicken wings and a pint in O’Connell’s overlooking the harbour in Howth.

Achievement you are most proud of? Completing my business degree part time, whilst working full time and raising two small children!

Favourite saying?

Just keep swimming. n