Jacob Papermaster

Pao is a premium natural soda & mixer company, founded and based in Shanghai China.

• Launched Pao Brands, growing it from concept to a recognized market player.
• Secured crucial seed capital, enabling the successful setup, launch, and scale-up of the brand.
• Developed creative financing solutions to sustain inventory growth.
• Established and supervised custom supply chains.
• Oversaw manufacturing operations and production workflows, strengthening OEM partnerships.
• Guided formulation development and brand strategy.
• Directed initial steps toward international growth.
• Developed brand collaborations with major partners, such as Marriott Group, NIO Inc., Topgolf China, and Peddlers Gin Co.
• Designed and delivered bespoke white-label beverage products for Swire House Collective Hotels and Nordes Gin.
• Coordinated joint campaigns with premier international spirit portfolios, like William Grant & Sons, Pernod Ricard, and Maison Ferrand.
• Secured nationwide (China) distribution contract with Proof & Company.

Craft Republic is a full-service platform that acts as a proxy presence in the Chinese beverage market.

• Pioneered market entry strategies for international brands, opening up the Chinese beverage market.
• Established exclusive import and distribution strategies for global brands within China.
• Drove client expansion with strategic marketing, enhancing brand footprints across China.
• Cultivated strong collaborations with regional stakeholders to drive omni-channel expansion.
• Managed compliance with Chinese FDA regulations and customs requirements.
• Implemented strategies for funding prolonged import inventory periods.
• Facilitated participation for global brand partners at trade exhibitions in China.
• Coordinated nationwide brand education tours aimed at China's cocktail bar and hospitality sector.

• Aided top 10 global tennis players in meeting on and off court needs.
• Supervised team of 50 volunteers maintaining clean and dry courts for practice sessions and matches.