People

I just learned that Michael Jackson has died. Jackson was immensely influential on all of us: drinkers, brewers, distillers, and of course, writers. (He could be almost too influential; I remember one writer telling me that he didn’t read Jackson’s work at all any more, because he didn’t want to... Read More

BRUCE CARBONARI has been named Chief Executive, in addition to his current position of President and Chief Operating Officer. The new appointment will take effect January 1. Carbonari will succeed NORM WESLEY, who has been CEO since 1999. Wesley will continue to serve as Chairman of the board of directors.... Read More

DAN GRUNBECK has been named Vice President Sales, Pernod Ricard USA Wines. Grunbeck is an 18-year industry veteran who joins from the US division of William Grant & Sons, where he was Senior Vice President of Sales/National Sales Manager and Director of Sales and Marketing, Fine Wine Division. Among Grunbeck’s... Read More

MAGGIE LAPCEWICH has been appointed as President, National Accounts. In this role, Lapcewich will lead Diageo North America’s beer, wine and spirits business with large national on- and off-premise customers. She has been with Diageo for 15 years serving in a variety of commercial roles, most recently as the General... Read More

ROB SANDS has been named Chief Executive Officer in addition to his existing responsibilities of President and COO. He takes over the position from his brother Richard Sands who will remain Chairman of the Board. Also, JOSE FERNANDEZ will be promoted to the new position of Chief Executive Officer for... Read More

GREG REES has been appointed Director of Marketing & Communications, National Accounts. Greg comes to Moet Hennessy after nine years as Marketing Manager at Olive Garden Restaurants.

CHRIS KENNEDY has been hired as the organization’s new Communications and Public Affairs Manager. In his new position, Kennedy will serve as the primary point of contact for all trade media inquiries directed to WSWA. Kennedy will also work closely with every department within WSWA’s office, focusing heavily on enlivening... Read More