Neal Sachman

Dynamic and results-driven Certified Wine Professional with over 20 years of experience in the fine wine and spirits industry. Proven expertise in sales leadership, distributor management, and national account growth across major retail and restaurant channels. Recognized for strategic relationship building, brand launches, and driving double-digit revenue increases. Combines deep product knowledge, team leadership, and analytical insight to deliver consistent success.

Director of Sales Midwest at Demeine Estates (2024-10 – Present)

• Managed 18 distributors across 8 states
• Grew total revenue in the territory by 28% in the first year
• Oversaw key account assignments including on/off premise chains
• Managed high-volume states: IL, IN, OH, MI, WI, MN
• Led two successful brand launches in the first year
• Collaborated with supplier partners domestically and internationally (Italy, France)
• Represented a portfolio of over 200 SKUs of fine wines

Director National Accounts – Retail at Banfi USA (2023-01 – 2024-04)

• Managed 40 National and Regional retail chains
• Key customers included Costco, Target, Kroger, Meijer, Safeway, HEB, and Publix
• Generated $20M in new revenue in the first year
• Secured multiple new chain clients through strategic partnership and innovation

Senior Team Leader at Pacific Highway Wines and Spirits (now Opici) (2012-04 – 2022-10)

• One of the original startup hires; instrumental in company growth and culture
• Developed and managed private label business generating $12M annually
• Advanced through multiple roles including Regional Manager Midwest and National Accounts
• Built and managed regional chain teams, ensuring long-term client success
• Awarded Supplier of the Year by Wine Enthusiast (2022) and Whole Foods (2018)

Midwest Regional Manager at Arel Group Wine and Spirits (2009-09 – 2012-03)

• Increased territory sales by 161% in first year, 63% in second
• Landed 6 SKUs in Target and Costco chains
• Created and executed programs and incentives while managing budgets
• Managed 9-state territory and coordinated with 4 major distributors
• Conducted market tastings and built key local and national relationships

Wine Consultant (Sales) at Chicago Wine Merchants / Breakthru Beverage Illinois (2006-09 – 2009-08)

• Took territory from #12 to #2 in total sales
• Increased gross profit margin by 68% (2007–2009)
• Built strong relationships with suppliers and buyers
• Consistently achieved growth-based incentives for 3 consecutive years
• Conducted tastings and expanded portfolio placements across territory

Early Culinary and Hospitality Career at Various (2004-06 – 2006-07)

• Head Line Chef, China Grill – Chicago, IL
• Garde Manger, Les Nomades – Chicago, IL
• Chef/Owner, Neal Justin LLC – Chicago, IL
• Wine Bar Tender, Whitehall Hotel – Chicago, IL
• Successfully managed fine dining kitchen operations and led a personal catering company
• Managed 50 BTG wine program for wine-savvy clientele

Wine Professional Certification in Wine – Culinary Institute of America (2006-04)

B.A. in Culinary Arts – Kendall College (2004-05)

Film Studies and Creative Writing – University of Iowa (2000 – 2002)