What Makes a Great Brand Ambassador? Darrio Prescod of Mount Gay
Editor’s note: We met Darrio Prescod at a virtual event introducing the newest Mount Gay Rum Master Blender Collection, Andean Oak Cask. His thoughtful observations and insight demonstrated to us just why he’s the perfect fit for the role of global brand ambassador.
Darrio Prescod
What attracted you to the industry?
I fell into it entirely by chance really. I started working at the Mount Gay Visitors Centre as a temp tour guide. While learning about the brand I became quite fascinated with the overall spirit-making process. My curiosity was piqued, and I always wanted to know more. That and the fact that I never liked being stumped by visitors lol.
How and when did you get started as a global brand ambassador?
I started working as a brand ambassador back in 2015. This was after years of watching the brand ambassador at the time and telling myself I could do that job. When it was time for that brand ambassador to move on, they thought I would be a great replacement. Their boss at the time was also in agreement. I guess you could say the rest is history.
What are the qualifications for being a great brand ambassador?
Being personable and relatable are often taken for granted but these are truly important skills, especially when meeting and interacting with clients from all walks of life. Being well versed in your category could also be of great help when making suggestions and comparisons. All of these in addition to being a great storyteller could help you go far in your career.
What does your job entail?
My job is primarily based on education and engagement with the end client, trade, and distributor. This could be done in the form of masterclasses, dinners, and cocktail classes. These are all geared towards raising brand awareness.
What are the biggest misconceptions people have about brand ambassadors?
It’s all about partying and drinking when it’s so much more. It’s relationship management and this is an industry that is very much based on relationships.
What do you like best about being a brand ambassador?
As cliché as it may sound, I enjoy meeting people. It’s even better when they are ready to share a story about how they were introduced to the brand initially. I’ve also had the opportunity to visit quite a few of the states thanks to my job.
What trends do you see right now in the cocktail/spirits world?
Cocktails to go are here to stay and the push will continue for more sustainable practices within the industry as well as heightened transparency.
Why did you choose this brand to represent?
The brand chose me! Being Barbadian by birth Mount Gay has always been a household name and constantly referenced as the rum of Barbados. The brand provided me with the outlet to promote my home in a positive light and all things Bajan. I feel genuine pride representing the first brand of rum ever created.
What’s something surprising about the brand that most people don’t know?
That it is literally the oldest brand of rum in the world!
What’s one of your favorite cocktails?
Classic Daquiri (with a slight twist)
1.5 oz Mount Gay Black Barrel
¾ oz Falernum
¾ Lime juice
2-3 dashes of aromatic bitters
Add the rum, lime juice and Falernum, lime juice and bitters to a shaker with ice, and shake until well-chilled. Strain into a chilled coupe. Garnish with a lime wheel.