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
