Stephen Gruppuso
Bayport,NY
Summary
Hands-on sales and market development lead with a track record of growing a craft spirits brand across 12 markets and counting. At the Better Man Distilling Co., I've built and managed a wholesale strategy from the ground up, leading distributor relationships, expanding into new states, and personally driving sales with key accounts. Comfortable wearing a lot of hats: from forecasting and CRM tracking, to in-market ride-alongs and trade tastings. Deep understanding of the three-tiered system, strong instincts in the field, and a passion for building brands the scrappy way.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Head of Wholesale & Market Expansion
The Better Man Distilling Co.
Patchogue, NY
02.2020 - Current
- Built and executed the wholesale sales plan for all markets, including local, and 12 or more out of state.
- Initiate new market expansions (states) as brand grows, encompassing licensing, distributor vetting, and launch strategy.
- Served as the main point of contact for all distribution partners.
- Conducted ride-alongs, sales meetings, and account visits in each market.
- Managed and developed a team of regional reps and brand ambassadors.
- Provided product and sales strategy training both at the facility and on the road.
- Assessed needs of accounts/leads rapidly and proficiently.
- Personally manage high-priority local accounts, and key relationships.
- Facilitated tastings, events, and local partnerships alongside marketing team
- Maintain CRM, and other account tracking systems.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Law & Society / Anthropology
Oberlin College
Oberlin, OH05-2020
Skills
- Social perceptiveness
- Field sales execution
- Supervision and leadership
- Distributor management
- Customer relationship management
- Trade marketing collaboration
- Brand storytelling
- Implement and Maintain CRM systems (SevenFifty, Excel-based, Control State Portals)
Affiliations
- Decorated Collegiate Tennis Player
- Golf Enthusiast
- Attendee, NY Distiller's Guild Meetings, Bar Convent Brooklyn, ADI Conference
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Head of Wholesale & Market Expansion
The Better Man Distilling Co.
02.2020 - Current
Bachelor of Arts - Law & Society / Anthropology
Oberlin College
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