Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Howard Imber

Howard Imber

Franklin Square,NY

Summary

I am a seasoned sales leader with over two decades of experience in the wine industry, specializing in strategic sales planning, client relationship management, and market expansion. My expertise in developing and executing comprehensive sales strategies has consistently resulted in exceeding sales targets and expanding customer bases. I am adept at leveraging technology to enhance sales processes and am committed to fostering strong, lasting relationships with clients to drive business growth.

Overview

23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Owner & President

Howard Imber Beverage Solutions
01.2024 - Current

Wine & Spirits Consultant (Building business for the big and small)

  • Started a new business to help large and small companies without representation in a market
  • Putting feet to the pavement and building a following of passionate buyers
  • Currently we have 4 clients and building more.
  • Price Family Estate, Starlite Vineyards, Brandon Gregory Estate & Blue Rascal

Sales Consultant - Key Account Specialist

PasMal
01.2024 - Current
  • Selection Pas Mal (Luxury portfolio and top Burgundy and California producers)
  • Growing distribution in key On & Off Premise accounts in NY and NJ
  • Building new long-term partnerships with Michelin-starred restaurants and top retailers
  • Increased department sales by over 40% YOY.

Sales Director Eastern USA, Canada & Caribbean

New Frontier Wine Co.
01.2020 - 01.2024
  • Developed and executed a $5.6 million strategic sales plan, resulting in a 5.5% increase in revenue across all channels
  • Established export channels in Canada and the Caribbean, significantly expanding the brand’s international presence
  • Managed all distributor partners including Breakthru Beverage, Winebow, RNDC, Angel Share, Lanterna, Johnson Brothers, Baker, SoPo, Brescome Barton, Worldwide Wines, Opici, Wine Merchants, Vintage Imports, Pas Mal Selections, and Martignetti Companies
  • Implemented strategic sales initiatives that grew the customer base by 50% year over year
  • Led cross-functional teams to revamp consumer experiences and wine club memberships, enhancing brand loyalty and customer engagement.

Eastern Regional Sales Manager

Frog’s Leap Winery
01.2011 - 12.2019
  • Pioneered the Eastern Regional Manager role for Frog's Leap Winery, managing sales across 14 markets and achieving sales targets through strategic customer partnerships
  • Managed a $2.5M budget, contributing 25% of the winery’s total production sales
  • Expanded distribution opportunities, significantly growing the company’s customer base
  • Provided key accounts with compelling selling stories, resulting in increased distribution and brand visibility.

National Sales Manager (Start-Up)

C. Donatiello Winery
01.2008 - 01.2011
  • Established a nationwide distribution network, opening markets in 22 states and implementing effective marketing and sales strategies
  • Developed and managed the budget and revenue plan, ensuring profitability and meeting business forecasts
  • Held distributor partners accountable, ensuring the effective implementation of market plans and achievement of sales goals.

Eastern Regional Sales Manager

Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars
06.2002 - 12.2007
  • Managed wholesale distribution, marketing, and sales across 15 markets, generating over $10 million in revenue
  • Sold 44% of the total production, demonstrating exceptional sales and negotiation skills
  • Implemented strategic marketing and sales goals, contributing to the brand’s strong market presence and profitability.

Education

American Sommelier Association
Certified Sommelier

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WSET Level 1

B.A. - Finance

Stockton University

Skills

  • Proficient in Diver, Dropbox, Microsoft Word-Excel-Power Point, Teams, VIP Karma, SAP Concur, demonstrating strong technological proficiency and adaptability in sales-related tools and technology
  • Experienced in CRM software, enhancing customer relationship management and sales tracking
  • Skilled in strategic sales planning, client relationship management, and market expansion, with a proven track record of exceeding sales targets
  • Strong communicator with exceptional negotiation skills, adept at building rapport and establishing trust with clients
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to achieve business goals and improve customer satisfaction

Certification

American Sommelier Association Degree

Timeline

Owner & President - Howard Imber Beverage Solutions
01.2024 - Current
Sales Consultant - Key Account Specialist - PasMal
01.2024 - Current
Sales Director Eastern USA, Canada & Caribbean - New Frontier Wine Co.
01.2020 - 01.2024
Eastern Regional Sales Manager - Frog’s Leap Winery
01.2011 - 12.2019
National Sales Manager (Start-Up) - C. Donatiello Winery
01.2008 - 01.2011
Eastern Regional Sales Manager - Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars
06.2002 - 12.2007
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American Sommelier Association - ,
Stockton University - B.A., Finance
Howard Imber