Diageo Bar Academy at Voodoo Rooms
Diageo's recently re-launched global training programme for bar professionals will be hosting a two-day 'Careers Lab' pop up within the Carte Blanche Room at The Voodoo Rooms. Focused on supporting bartenders with their career development - the Careers Lab will feature bar takeovers, mini masterclasses, 121 careers counselling, a head shot studio and a bartender's library.
Monday 7th & Wednesday 9th
13:00 - 18:00: The Diageo Bar Academy Bar
13:00 - 18:00: The Diageo Bar Academy Library
13:00 - 18:00: The Diageo Bar Academy Studio
13:00 - 15:00: 121 Careers Counselling
15:00 - 15:30: Insider Tips on How to Enter & Win Competitions
15:30 - 16:00: How to Become a Brand Ambassador
16:00 - 16:30: Shoot Your Shot: Why Photography Matters
16:30 - 17:00: How to Nurture Creativity
17:00 - 18:00: Drinks & Networking
13:00 - 18:00: The Diageo Bar Academy Bar
Diageo Bar Academy will be partnering with World Class Alumni Katie Rouse and Scott Stevenson to host bar takeovers that will showcase cocktails inspired by their careers to-date.
Katie is the founder of Couch, Birmingham (recently voted as 4th best cocktail bar in the UK), whilst Scott is Head Bartender at GaGa, Glasgow and recently jointly won 'Best Shake' at the 2025 Glasgow Bar Awards. Both of them will also be hosting mini masterclasses focused on competition tips and creativity - so you can sample their creations, whilst being inspired by their wisdom at the same time!
Alongside Katie & Scott's serves, there will be cocktails created by Andy Gemmell (drinks consultant and owner of The Gate, Glasgow) inspired by his approach to team culture - topics that will be discussing during the Diageo Bar Academy seminars.
13:00 - 18:00: The Diageo Bar Academy Library
The Careers Lab will also feature a Diageo Bar Academy Library featuring books recommended by Diageo's Brand Ambassadors, World Class alumni and guest speakers - covering a wide range of inspirational topics such as classic cocktails, the art of hospitality, team culture, marketing and leadership. There will also be a 'book swap' shelf for those of you who would like to pass on your well worn favourites and pick up something to refresh your collection!
13:00 - 18:00: The Diageo Bar Academy Studio
It's time to take your profile pictures to the next level! With a range of backdrops and cocktail props to get creative with - professional photographer Ryan Sneddon will make sure you leave with a headshot that represents your unique personality. Ideal for using on your social media platforms, within your CV or to accompany press pieces, you'll be treated to three shots and a Gify to show them off!
Pre-booking is advised. Click below to make an appointment.
13:00 - 15:00: 121 Careers Counselling
Just starting out, or looking to take the next step in your career and not sure where to begin? Book in for a 15 minute careers counselling session with Diageo Bar Academy's trainers - La'Mel Clarke (formerly of the award-winning Mr Lyan Group) and Marc McParland (ex-General Manager at The Gate and Head Bartender at Kelvingrove Cafe). You'll receive tailored advice on the Diageo Bar Academy modules most suited to your level and a reading list according to your needs and ambitions - compiled by Diageo Bar Academy, Diageo's Brand Ambassadors, World Class Alumni Katie Rouse and Scott Stevenson, and Diageo Bar Academy guest speaker Andy Gemmell.
Pre-booking is advised. Click below to make an appointment.
15:00 - 15:30: The Road to World Class - Insider tips on how to enter & win competitions
Katie Rouse - Diageo World Class Alumni (two-time top 10 finalist) and owner of Birmingham-based bar, Couch (recently voted at no.4 in the UK's Top 50 cocktail bar awards), explores the ins and outs of the cocktail competition. From how to create a winning drink using storytelling and creative use of ingredients, through to what the judges are looking for, how to prepare for the big day and how to boss your presentation. World Class here we come!
15:30 - 16:00: How to Become a Brand Ambassador
Diageo's Scotch Whisky Ambassador Kirsty Thomson talks us through her experience and the journey of her colleagues to their positions as Brand Ambassadors for one of the world's leading drinks companies. She shares her insight, advice and recommendations for anyone aspiring to represent the brands they love.
16:00 - 16:30: Shoot Your Shot: Why photography matters
Join photographer, filmmaker and ex-bartender (PS40, Lucky Liquor, Panda & Sons) Ryan Snedden as he shares why photography matters in hospitality and the importance of nailing your cocktail photography before guiding you through some practical top tips of how to elevate your approach without the need for fancy gear.
16:30 - 17:00: How to Nurture Creativity
Diageo World Class Alumni Scott Stevenson, Head Bartender at GaGa, Glasgow, discusses where his inspiration for creating drinks comes from and how he nurtures creativity in his team. Scott will be sharing his favourite creative resources and practical tips on how to get your creative juices flowing.
17:00 - 18:00: Drinks & Networking
Network with fellow EBS guests during the final hour of Diageo Bar Academy's pop-up bar hosted by Scott Stevenson (head bartender at GaGa, Glasgow and winner of the 'Best Shake' at the 2025 Glasgow Bar Awards) between 5-6pm.
Whilst you're there - make sure you bring a book along to take part in the book swap at the Diageo Bar Academy bartender's library, or nail your profile picture with the help of their headshot studio.
