Vern Underwood
Chairman of the Board
Vern Underwood has spent his entire career at Young's Market Company, working in virtually every capacity over the years. Together with his sister, Janet, Vern is co-owner of the Company. As Chairman of the Board and CEO of Young's Holdings, Vern oversees the Company's operations and assets in the Western US states Young's operates. In addition Vern is Co-Chairman and CEO of the Company's wholly owned subsidiary, Wilson Daniels Ltd., one of the nation's leading importers and distributors of fine wines and spirits. Vern is a graduate of the University of Southern California where he obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration. Both Vern and Janet are generous supporters of local charitable causes including Hoag Memorial Hospital, Mission Children's Hospital of Orange County, the Boys' and Girls' Clubs, and Chapman University.
Office Location: Aliso Viejo
Chris Underwood
CEO, Young's Market Company
In addition to being the Chief Executive Officer of Young’s Market Company, LLC; Chris is a member of the Board of Directors of Young’s Holdings, Inc., the parent company of Young’s Market Company. He has been an employee, officer and/or director of Young’s Market Company for his entire adult life.
In his capacity as Chief Executive Officer of Young’s Market Company, Chris oversees all facets of the Company’s business operations in all markets which include California, Hawaii, Arizona, Oregon, Washington, Alaska, Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, and Montana.
He reports directly to Vern Underwood, Chairman of Young’s Holdings, Inc. Chris is a graduate of the University of Southern California where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications.
Office Location: Tustin
Janet Smith
Executive Vice-President and Secretary
Together, both Vern and Janet are the principle owners of Young's Holdings, Inc., the parent company of Young's Market Company, LLC and its affiliated companies. Janet is a member of the Board of Directors, Executive Vice-President, and Secretary of the Company. Janet plays a very significant role in defining the company's long and short term strategies, goals, and the company's corporate culture. She has been exposed to and involved in the beverage alcohol distribution industry her entire adult life and the board is the grateful beneficiary of her experience and insight. Janet earned a B.S. in Business Education from the University of California, Los Angeles. Janet is active in local charities, giving generously to Hoag Memorial Hospital, Mission Children's Hospital of Orange County, Chapman University, the Big Brothers and Big Sisters and many other worthy causes.
Ted Simpkins
Executive Vice President, Corporate
In his role as Executive Vice President, Corporate, Ted is responsible for development of new business, creation of long and short term strategic initiatives, and enhancement of supplier relations. Ted has had a long and distinguished career in the wine and spirits industry, bringing over 3 decades of sales and management experience. Ted spent 39 years with another major wholesaler, 27 of them in California, with his most recent role as Executive VP Managing Director. In addition to his distributor experience, Ted is also founder of Lancaster Estate located in California’s Alexander Valley.
Office Location: Tustin
Kevin Manion
Executive Vice President-Chief Financial Officer
As Chief Financial Officer, Kevin oversees the finance, treasury, accounting, planning, real estate, logistics and purchasing functions of Young's Holdings, Inc., Young's Market Company, and Wilson Daniels, Ltd. Kevin has a wealth of experience in distribution and consumer products at Fortune 500 and mid-cap companies. Kevin earned his Accounting degree from the University of Notre Dame. He is a CPA, Certified Treasury Professional and Certified Production and Inventory Control Manager.
Office Location: Tustin
Don Robbins
Executive Vice President & General Counsel
In his role as Executive Vice President and General Counsel, Don oversees all legal matters, including acquisitions, supplier agreements, litigation, regulatory compliance, labor relations and the legislative agenda for Young's Market Company and all affiliated companies. Prior to joining Young's Market Company in 1999, Don served as President of Hollywood Park, Inc and was a partner in the Los Angeles law firm of Iverson, Yoakum, Papiano and Hatch where he performed a substantial amount of work on behalf of Young's Market Company. Don holds a B.A. from the University of California, Santa Barbara. He is an active member of the State Bar of California and earned his J.D. from the University of California, Hastings College of Law.
Office Location: Aliso Viejo
Bob Richardson
Executive VP Corporate Logistics and Holdings
Bob is charged with ensuring that our distribution centers and delivery services provide excellent customer service and operate efficiently across the entire 10 state network. He has a strong industrial engineering and systems development background that he uses to develop our distribution facilities, offices, and logistics systems to best support sales efforts, healthy inventory levels, and the internal needs of our company and real estate holdings portfolio. Before rejoining the company fulltime in 2007, Bob managed and consulted for major companies in the pharmaceutical, action sports, beverage, aerospace, and other industries for 25 years. Since 1990, Bob has led Young’s physical and operating systems’ development including the Orange, Morgan Hill, and Chino distribution centers, as well as our Corporate Headquarters in Tustin.
Office Location: Tustin
Eric Dopkins
President, California
As President of Young’s California, Eric is responsible for all aspects of the Chain and General Market divisions. Eric is also responsible for Trade Development, Business Development, National Accounts and California Operations. Charged with delivering best in class performance and leading the organization in its evolution as a preeminent wine & spirits distributor, each function has evolved in 2011 and support our mission of being “Best in the West”,
Eric joined Young’s Market Company in May of 2010. Eric has over 20 years of spirit industry experience, most recently with Pernod Ricard, USA where he was Vice President and General Sales Manager of the Western US. Prior to Pernod Ricard, he held various sales and channel management roles with Diageo North America, prior to departing in 2007.
Office Location: Tustin
Mark Moser
President Arizona
Mark Moser has over 26 years of experience in the beverage alcohol industry. He began his career with the E&J Gallo Winery as a Field Marketing Manager. After 5 years with Gallo in multiple markets including Texas and Colorado, Mark joined the sales leadership team at the Julius Schepps Company in Dallas as a Division Manager in 1990. With the formation of Republic Beverage Company in 1997, Mark continued to broaden his experience and eventually assumed the role of Executive Vice President of Southeast Texas in 2000. Mark successfully led the organization through tremendous growth and developed a solid foundation of managers in the Houston market. In 2007, Mark accepted the role of Market President for Arizona with RNDC and has developed a team which has consistently over-indexed with their portfolio in a highly competitive market. As President of Young’s Market Company of Arizona, Mark is responsible for the Sales and Operations team across the state.
Mark is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Office Location: Phoenix
Jeff Underwood
Board Member
Jeff is a member of the Board of Directors of Young's Holdings, Inc., the parent Company of Young's Market Company. He has been an employee, officer and/or director of the company, or one or more of its affiliates, for his entire adult life. Jeff holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration from the University of Southern California and he is a graduate of Harvard Business School's Advanced Executive Management Program.
George Smith
Board Member
George joined Young's Market Company in 1990 and is a member of the Board of Directors of Young's Holdings, Inc. George earned his B.A. in Art from Fort Lewis College.
Greg Franklin
Senior Vice President & CIO
Greg is responsible for all Young’s Market Company & Affiliates communication and information systems. Greg is a 23 year veteran of the alcohol beverage industry, coming to Young’s from a successful career with another California distributor. Greg started on the ground floor as a computer operator and was steadily promoted to his last position of Director of Information Technology. During his tenure, he installed multiple systems ranging from departmental to enterprise-wide in scale, and brings expertise in programming, system assessment, system installations, communication systems and leadership in his field.
Office Location: Union City
Joe Vacovsky, Jr.
Senior Vice President of Human Resources
Joe joined Young’s in April 2012. He is responsible for the Human Resources and Payroll functions for all Young’s Market Company & Affiliates. Joe has 30 years’ experience in Human Resources with Unilever, ConAgra, Centex and Accor. He has managed corporate and field staffs supporting groups up to 25,000 employees. He has an extensive background with represented employees and integrating new businesses and systems. Joe has a BS in Personnel and Labor Relations from The University of Maryland and Masters of Science in Administration from Central Michigan University.
Office Location: Tustin
Jason Wooler
Senior Vice President General Market Northern CA
A California native, and a 16-year industry veteran, Jason’s first job in the industry was working for a major California wholesaler in Southern California. He then took a job working at Jim Beam Brands working in both the chains and broad market channels. In 2000 he went back to the wholesaler side as a Key Account Specialist working in the Beverly Hills and LA market, moving through their organization as Wine Manager and Division Manager. His last role, prior to joining Young’s Market Company, was General Manager. In January of 2010 Jason joined Young’s Market Company as the Senior Vice President and General Sales Manager for the General Market in Northern California. In this role he oversees the entire General Market in Northern California.
Office Location: Union City
Brian Keller
Senior Vice President, General Market Southern CA
In his role as Senior Vice President for Young’s Market Company, Brian is responsible for driving sales initiatives with our suppliers, customers and the sales organization throughout the Southern California General Market. Brian joined Young's Market Company in June of 2010 and has 16 years of beverage alcohol industry experience. Brian has broad experience, including sales, multi-cultural, key-accounts, division and sales management in both On and Off-Premise.
Office Location: Tustin
Hayden O’Shea
Senior Vice President The Estates Group
Hayden has over 15 years of alcohol beverage industry experience in both the distributor and supplier network, most recently as the Director of Sales for another wholesaler in California. He brings broad industry experience, a proven track record of success, and a real passion for the fine wine business.
Office Location: Union City
Dan Walker
Senior Vice President of Business Development
Dan has been the SVP of Business Development since April 2011. The team leads all sales analysis and reporting, delivers new systems and solutions to enhance front end sales support, leads pricing implementation and management of trade spends, and provides financial support to the sales teams. Additionally, Dan oversees Millennium Marketing, our new Strategic Retail payment, processing, and planning group. Dan started with Young’s in August 2010 as VP of Programming for Strategic Retail. Prior to joining Young’s Dan spent the previous 12 years in various roles with Diageo and The Seagram Company across finance, sales, and marketing in both domestic and international capacities. Dan holds a Bachelor of Commerce Degree with Distinction from the University of Alberta School of Business where he majored in Finance.
Office Location: Tustin
Eric Lake
Senior Vice President National Accounts On-Premise
Eric comes to YMCO with a successful 18 year career in the wine and spirits industry. He began his career working for the former Paddington Corporation as the Central Region National Accounts Manager. After eight years with Paddington / DIAGEO, Eric joined Southcorp Wines (Fosters) as Vice President National Accounts – On Premise. In 2002, he joined Nolet Spirits USA as Vice President ONP National Accounts, and most recently was the Division Vice President – Southern Region / ONP National Accounts.
Office Location: Tustin
Carl Carlson
Senior Vice President of Spirits and Other Fine Beverages for California
Carl is a 26 year industry veteran has been with the company since 1998, serving in various senior leadership roles. Currently Carl is the SVP of Spirits and selected beverages and is responsible to deliver the P&L objectives for our Spirits and selected beverage business in California.
He began his career in California with the E & J Gallo Winery in 1985, where he worked for 13 years in a variety of sales & management roles in the Western and Eastern U.S. on the supplier side, as well as, working inside independent distributors. He is a 1985 graduate of St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Food Marketing, with a minor in Finance.
Office Location: Tustin
Nick Claitman
Vice President The Estates Group NoCal
Nick Claitman currently serves as the Vice President of Sales for the Estate Group Northern California. Nick took over the Estates Group early in 2010, prior to that Nick worked at another major wholesaler for 14 years. Nick oversees the fine wine division for Young’s Market in the general market, reporting directly to Hayden O’Shea. Prior to working in the distribution channel, Nick oversaw the beverage component and opened new locations for various restaurants. Nick graduated from Cal State Sacramento with a Bachelor Arts degree in Psychology.
Office Location: Union City
Dan Grunbeck
Senior Vice President of Wine Strategy
Dan is a 20 year industry veteran with incomparable wine experience and expertise. Prior to joining Young’s, he has held a number of positions with prominent wineries and wine suppliers throughout his career, and most recently, serving as the Vice President / National Sales Manager Wines and Champagnes for Pernod Ricard.
Office Location: Tustin
Gino Margarino
Vice President The Estates Group SoCal
Currently Vice President of Sales for the Estate Group in Southern California. He has been an Employee for 11 years, helping to start and mold the Estates Group since the beginning. Gino is a graduate from the University of New Hampshire, where he earned his B. S. in Hotel Administration from the Whitemore School of Business.
He has been in the wine business 25 years. Is also, a Certified Specialist of Wine.
Office Location: Los Angeles
Jon Scriven
Senior Vice President National Strategic Retail
Jon has been working in the Wine and Spirits Industry since 1991, upon graduating from California State University, Sacramento with a Bachelor of Science Degree. Throughout his career his has held several key positions within the Wholesaler and Supplier community, including, Lovotti Brothers, Trinchero Family Estates, R. H. Phillips Winery. In 2006 Jon started his career with Young’s Market Company at the Vice President of Southern California Chains, responsible for both Headquarter and Field planning & execution. In his role today Jon is leading the Young’s Market Company California Strategic Retail Team, as well as working with Sr. Leadership team of the organization.
Office Location: Tustin
Marc Mueller
Senior Vice President of Trade Marketing
As VP of Trade Development, Marc is accountable for trade activation including the linkage to on and off premise promotion s with the Greenhouse Agency and with our social media partner, Crowdstir. Marc works with our sales organization and suppliers to ensure these critical capabilities are properly connected to “win at retail”. In addition, Marc is responsible for the Young’s Market Company graphics department, venue activation and supplier trade initiatives.
Marc joined Young’s Market Company in 2011 bringing 17 years of experience in the Beverage Alcohol industry. Marc earned his B.A. in marketing from Loyola Marymount University.
Office Location: Tustin
Sheldon Alexander
Vice President of Sales
As Vice President of Sales for Young's Market Company Arizona, Sheldon Alexander is responsible for overseeing all sales aspects of Young's sales in Arizona. Sheldon has been with Young's Market Company since 1990 and has over 20 years of experience in all aspects of the business. In his tenure with Young's, he has truly worked his way through the organization, starting as a Sales Representative, and bringing his talent to various positions including VP of Premium Grocery & Specialty division Northern California, Account Executive, and Director of Merchandising.
Office Location: Phoenix
Jim Barich
Vice President of Government Relations
As Vice President of Government Relations, Jim is responsible for the Company’s political and legislative affairs agendas in all the jurisdictions in which we operate. Jim has over thirty years of government affairs experience, most recently as Senior Vice President of Public Affairs at Pinnacle Entertainment,a publically traded gaming company. He has also served as Vice President, Government Affairs, at The Irvine Company, a privately –owned real estate development enterprise, and served as Legislative Director to the former Congressman Glenn M. Anderson, chair of the Committee on Public Works and Transportation. Jim is a graduate of the University of California at Santa Barbara where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science.
Office Location: Aliso Viejo
Chris Candelario
Branch Manager, Santa Rosa
Chris has been in the Alcohol Beverage industry for 6 years prior to joining Young’s Market Company in 2010. Chris graduated from San Diego State University with a Business degree in Finance.
Office Location: Santa Rosa
Robert Foss
Vice President Business Development
As Vice President of Business Development, Rob is developing or improving sales systems by working closely with sales and providing a needed link with IT. Rob has brought social media to YMCO with an official Facebook, Linked In and You Tube Channel. He also was the lead for the recent Website upgrade.
Rob has been with Young’s Market Company for over 14 years and has held management positions in each channel of business. This flexibility gives him the knowledge, and experience to help the sales and IT develop tools and processes that are current and relevant.
Office Location: Union City
Rick Kuri
Vice President Stratic Retail Headquaters SoCal
As a 17 year industry veteran, Rick’s career has focused on sales, marketing, merchandising and category management. After eight years in the Retail Grocery Industry, Rick joined Canandaigua Brands in 1994 as a Sales Merchandiser in San Diego. In 1996 Rick was hired by Southern Wine & Spirits, working in various roles including Chain District Manager and category management. He was recruited by YMCO in 2001 as an Account Executive in the Chain Division and in 2005 Rick was promoted to Director of Sales where he managed HQ teams for Ralphs, F4L, Albertsons and CVS. In his current position as Vice President of Southern California Chains, Rick manages all aspects of SC Chains and Drug Channel business within our Strategic Retail Division. Rick has proven himself as a leader with his dedicated work ethic and commitment in serving our suppliers and customers at the highest level.
Office Location: Tustin
Louis Balducci
Branch Manager, LA / OC Off Premise
Louis joined Young’s Market Company in July of 2010. He brings 15 years of industry experience, covering On and Off Premise roles as well as the chain Account Executive role.
Office Location: Tustin
Robert Cernius
Vice President Sales Manager Off-Premise SoCal
Robert has worked in the Off Premise for 20 years at Young’s Market Company. In his capacity as the Off Premise Channel Vice President, Robert oversees the planning, programming and supplier goals for the Off-Premise Channel in Southern California. Robert is a graduate of the University of California at Berkeley, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History.
Office Location: Tustin
Andrea Pridam
Vice President of Corporate Systems
Andrea is responsible for Sales Analysis and Reporting, including internal depletions, accounts sold, and profitability data, as well as external data such as AC Nielsen, TD Linx, and Adam’s Reports. In addition to working with the California Executive Management team to develop data insight tools, Andrea also collaborates across states to work toward consistent reporting for all YMC markets. Andrea is also a part of many project based initiatives, such as Corporate Presentations, budgeting, and RFP preparation.
Andrea holds a BA in International Business from California State University, Fullerton, as well as an MBA from Concordia University.
Office Location: Tustin
Art Danner
Vice President Sales Manager On-Premise NoCal
Art Danner currently is the VP for the On Premise Business in Northern California covering 6 branches and 12 On Premise teams. Art joined Young's Market Company in 2010. As an industry veteran Art has managed portfolios and Branches, and has worked both the supplier side and the wholesaler side. Art has been in the Wine and Spirits industry for 21 years since graduating from UC Davis in 1990 with a BA in Political Science and Economics. Art reports directly into SVP of Northern California Jason Wooler.
Office Location: Union City
Peter Fons
Branch Manager, Central Coast
Peter joined Young’s Market Company in July 2010 and brings 27 years of beverage industry experience, including as San Diego Branch Manager. Most recently Peter lived in New Zealand for 6 years, working for Foster’s in various management roles.
Office Location: Ventura
Brett Graves
Vice President Pricing
As Vice President of Pricing Support, Brett oversees all aspects of pricing and item maintenance functions in the three Young’s Southwest States of California, Hawaii and Arizona. Prior to joining Young’s Market Company in 1997, Brett held several positions within the Sales and Marketing segments of Diageo North America based in California. With over 30 years experience within the beverage alcohol industry Brett has a well rounded knowledge of the industry.
Office Location: Tustin
Jacob Forsberg
Vice President Costco Corporate
Jacob Forsberg is the Vice President for the Club Division of Young’s Market Co in California. In this role he is responsible for Young’s Market’s business at Costco in their California, Hawaii and Arizona regions, as well as leading and coordinating the National Network call on Costco. Pryor to joining Young’s Market Company Jacob had worked for Gallo and Moet Hennessy USA. Jacob sits on the board for the City of Hope, and is a committee member for the Christermon Scholarship Foundation Jacob has his Bachelor of Science degree from the California State University, Sacramento
Office Location: Union City
Matt Hagel
Vice President National Stratgic Retail
Coming Soon
Office Location: Union City
Geoff Labitzke
Vice President of Fine Wine
As Corporate Vice President of Fine Wine, Geoff works closely with the Company’s network of sales management in every market. He is an industry connoisseur of 18 years with a wealth of experience across all three tiers of the beverage alcohol business. Since joining Young’s Market Company in 2000, he has restructured the Company’s direct Bordeaux business, grown overall import volume within the Estates Group and mentored numerous Company employees through the Certification of Wine Specialist program.
Geoff is one of the elite 24 American Masters of Wine.
Office Location: San Francisco
Ted Galustian
Vice President Safeway Corporate
Ted has worked in the liquor industry for over seventeen years. His experiences, prior to YMCo, include working grocery retail (during college), Sales Rep at Heublein Wines, and Chain Headquarter Manager at Pyramid Brewing. He has been with YMCo since the year 2000, where he has ascended up the ranks and currently holds the position of Vice President. He is the main point of contact, for Safeway Corporate, for all states YMCo does business: California, Hawaii, Arizona, Oregon, Washington, Alaska, Idaho, Wyoming, Utah, and Montana. Ted earned his Bachelor degree from San Jose State in International Business.
Office Location: Union City
Dermot Whelan
Branch Manager, Union City
Dermot graduated from Terenure College, Dublin, Ireland in 1984. He has been in the industry for 15 years and graduated level 1 Court of Sommeliers in 2005. Prior to YMCO Dermot worked 4 years with Constellation, 2 with Cruzan Rum, 6 with Beringer Wine Estates, and 3 years as at another distributor.
Office Location: Union City
Wayne Hopps
Branch Manager, San Jose
A Maryland native who joined the Young’s family in June 2010. Wayne has 12 years experience in the restaurant hospitality field. He served as the GM for Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse in several locations in Southern Cal. From there he became the General Manager for Mastro’s Steakhouse, working in Scottsdale, AZ. Then went on to open the Mastro’s Steakhouse in Beverly Hills, CA. Wayne has over 10 years expertise in the alcohol industry. He first joined the beverage industry with a major wine & spirit distributor as a sales rep and quickly made his way to Division Manager of Hollywood and Beverly Hills. In his role as V.P. Branch Manager of San Jose he overseas on-sale and off-sale in the San Jose Branch which includes Monterey and Santa Cruz.
Office Location: San Jose
Gaetan Ingrassia
Vice President Sales Manager Off-Premise NoCal
Spanning over 20 years in the wine and liquor industry where he has worked in all department of Sales: Chain, Off premise, and On premise. Initially worked for Gallo Wine Company where he was involved in college recruiting, sales, and training. He has worked for YMCO for over 17 years in different roles encompassing the entire state of California. Gaetan earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from California Polytechnic – San Luis Obispo.
Office Location: Union City
Mike Massery
Branch Manager, San Diego
Mike joined Young’s Market Company in May of 2010. He has a background in retail management and spent 29 years in beverage distribution in a number of key management positions including San Diego Branch Manager.
Office Location: San Diego
Todd Mihaly
Branch Manager, Fresno
Todd has over 22 years of industry experience and has spent his last 19 years with Young’s Market Company in numerous positions including Wine Specialist, Team Wine Manager, On Premise Division Manager, and Director of Sales for the Central Valley. Todd earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology.
Office Location: Fresno
Joe Petraglia
Branch Manager, San Francisco
Joe has over 24 years of industry experience and has spent his last 20 years with Young’s Market Company in several key positions, including SVP General Market North, Vice President Sales Manager On Premise and Vice President Sales Manager for The Estates Group in Northern California.
Office Location: San Francisco
Michael Simpkins
Branch Manager, Sacramento
Mike joined Young’s Market Company in August, 2010. He brings over 22 years of industry experience where he held various key management positions including Division Manager, VP of Constellation, and VP of Pernod Ricard divisions. Mike is a former United States Marine who was honored with many awards during his years serving our country.
Office Location: West Sacramento
Michael Shepard
Vice President Sales Manager On-Premise SoCal
Michael has over 18 years of beverage industry experience and has spent his last 13 years with Young’s Market Company. He has worked his way through the Sales ranks, holding positions as a Sales Representative, Division Manager, and Vice President Sales Manager for On Premise in Northern California.
Office Location: Tustin
Aaron Sullivan
Vice President of Merchandising
Aaron began his career with Young Market Company in September 1999. He has worked his way through the merchandising division, beginning as a sales representative and then through various management roles leading to Director of Sales Merchandising Southern California. He then went on to becoming Account Executive, calling on the strategic retail accounts at the head quarter level. In his current role as Vice President of Merchandising California, Aaron oversees all aspects of Strategic Retail Merchandising. He is a graduate of the California State University, Fullerton where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in speech communication.
Office Location: Tustin
Michael Tipton
Branch Manager, LA On premise
Michael has been with Young’s Market Company for 12 years, working his way up through the sales ranks, holding positions as a Salesman, Key Account Rep and Division Manager prior to his promotion to Branch Manager. Michael is a graduate of Fresno State University with a BS in Construction Management.
Office Location: Los Angeles
Gene Tuey
Branch Manager, OC On premise
Gene joined Young’s Market Company in July of 2010, and brings 30 years of industry experience. Gene has worked in all aspects of sales, including as a salesman, wine manager, key acct and most recently Division Manager. Gene is also a Certified Specialist of Wine.
Office Location: Tustin
Bryan Paul
Division Manger Chain Headquarters
Bryan is responsible for overseeing the Chain and Specialty Retail channels for Young’s Arizona. In his role, he manages programming, merchandising, and category management. He has lived in Arizona for past 9 years. Bryan brings over 18 years industry experience and has been with Young’s Market AZ since March 2006.Bryan’s prior experience includes senior level, multi-state customer & distributor management experience in all classes of trade.
Education: University of Loyola Marymount
Office Location: Phoenix
Bonner Paddock
Senior Vice President of Marketing and Partnership Activation
In his role as Senior Vice President of Marketing and Partnership Activation, Bonner oversees key strategic relationships across all facets including branding, sponsorship, media, activation and marketing platforms for Young’s Market Company. Prior to joining Young’s Market in 2010, Bonner served with the Anaheim Ducks/Honda Center and was Director of SMG agency. Bonner holds a B.A. from San Diego State University in Business Management. Bonner also is founder of OM foundation, a non-profit he started to build centers for disabled children in Africa and US.
http://www.1man1mission.org/
Office Location: Tustin
Melinda Nightengale
Director of Millennium Marketing
As Director of Millennium Marketing, Melinda is responsible for the day to day operations of Millennium Marketing. This includes overseeing the payments, processing and planning of the Strategic Retail Division and leading the future strategic direction of the group. Prior to joining the Young’s Market Company team, Melinda worked in the Hospitality and Retail industries for 14 years, including 4 years in the US Navy. As a past President and current Associate Vice President of the Christermon Foundation, a non-profit organization of the Beverage Alcohol Industry which supports charities and a scholarship program, Melinda is a liaison in demonstrating and promoting a positive image for our industry within the community.
Office Location: Tustin
Ray Hager
Division Manager Retail Chains
Mr. Hager has more than 20 years of experience in the wholesale liquor business. He joined Republic National Distributing Company Arizona in 1999 and has held various positions within the Retail Chain division including his current role as Division Manager of Retail Chains. In his current position, Ray is responsible for managing all aspects associated with the statewide retail sales force. Prior to joining RNDC, he worked for the local E&J Gallo distributor for nearly 9 years. He obtained his BS through Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ.
Office Location: Phoenix
Jeff Fricke
Division Manager General Market
As VP General Market, Jeff is responsible for driving sales and expanding distribution in on and off-premise accounts. He has been with Young’s since December 2005 and has over 20 years of industry experience. Jeff has extensive luxury brand building experience with targeted focus on all segments and a keen understanding of the demographics and nuances of the Arizona market. Prior to joining Young’s Market Company, he held key positions within the wine and spirits industry including: Division Manager, E&J Gallo Senior Regional Manager, Schieffelin & Somerset Co. Senior Regional Manager, Moet Hennessy USA
Education: Iowa State University
Office Location: Phoenix
Lorenia Vazquez-Pico
Division Manager The Estates Group
Lorenia Vazquez-Pico has 22 years of experience in the fine wine industry. She joined RNDC in 1995 and has held several senior management positions. Native of Mexico, she came to the United States sponsored by the Mexican Government with a full tuition scholarship. She is passionately devoted to wine, bone marrow donor recruitment and she is an avid conservationist.
Office Location: Phoenix
Bradly Fisher
Vice President of Marketing
Brad is responsible for all of the day-to day marketing activities for Arizona, including executing supplier planning initiatives, brand building, implementing incentives, sales forecasting, budgets, and overall brand goal achievements. He has been with Young’s for 5 years and brings extensive experience of 15 years selling, marketing and building fine wine & spirit portfolios. Prior to joining Young’s Market Company, he had also held senior level supplier positions that have included: Multi State Division Manager with Palm Bay International (CA/AZ/NM/NV) and he spent four years with Cactus Beverage/Alliance Distributing in AZ as a sales representative.
Education: Arizona State University
Office Location: Phoenix
Chris Curtin
Branch Manager Metro Phoenix
As Branch Manager, Chris is responsible for all of the day-to-day sales activities for Phoenix Branch General Market. Chris joined with Young’s in 2010 and was most recently the Vice President Division Sales Manager for Long Beach and brings extensive experience of 18 years selling, marketing and building fine wine & spirit portfolios.
Education: Mt. San Antonio College
Office Location: Phoenix
Stephen Buckmore
Branch Manager Tucson/Outlying Area
Steve has been with Young’s Market Company since 2008 and has 11 years of experience in the industry. Prior to joining Young’s Market Company, Steve spent 8 years with Alliance Beverage Distribution Company; 2 years as a Sales Representative, 3 as a Field Sales Manager and 3 years as Director of Sales for Southern Arizona overseeing the Diageo and Moet Hennessy portfolios.
Education: University of Arizona
Office Location: Phoenix
Daniel Levine
President and CEO, K&L – Alaska
Dan has been President of K&L Distributors since 1991 and is also the managing partner of K&L Beverage Company, a partner in Young's Markets Northwest, and the sole owner of K&L Distributors. Dan's role for Young's Market is to oversee Alaska wine and spirit operations and to advise on spirit and wine brokerage in Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming, Idaho and Montana. Dan started his career in banking with Citibank in New York City. He has been active in the wine and spirits industry since 1980. He began his career as a salesperson in Anchorage, and went on to a variety of management positions in beer, wine and spirit sales. Dan is a graduate of the Wharton School of Business.
Office Location: Anchorage
Don Grasse
EVP and GM, K&L Beverage – Alaska
Don has been in his role as EVP and General Manager since 1993 and is responsible for managing the Alaska operation for Young's Alaska. Don joined K&L Distributors as a Beer Sales Manager in 1991 in Anchorage, Alaska. Prior to his tenure at Young's Market Company, Don held various positions within the industry. He began his career in Chicago, Illinois with the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Company in 1978. After being promoted to District Manager, Don relocated to Missoula, Montana. Departing Schlitz, Don started an 11 year career with G. Heileman Brewing Company that included several promotions and relocations to Arizona and then Seattle. Don is a Michigan State graduate.
Office Location: Anchorage
Jay Nelson
Vice President of Spirits - Oregon
As Vice President of Spirits - Oregon for Young’s Market Company, Jay is responsible for managing sales, distribution, inventory and marketing for the many suppliers in a controlled environment. As both the wholesaler and retailer, Oregon is one of the eighteen control states with its unique challenges to bring distilled spirits to market.
Jay has spent his entire career in the beverage alcohol industry and has been a leader in Oregon working with state officials improving the retail environment. Because of many of these regulatory improvements, Oregon has become a dynamic market satisfying the needs of consumers, regulators and the distilled spirit industry.
5 years as a partner in a wine wholesale distributor
21 years as an independent liquor broker
12 years as vice president of Young’s Market Company of Oregon
Member of the Broker Advisory Committee, National Beverage Control Association (NABCA)
Jay is a graduate of Portland State University with a BS in Business Administration
Office Location: Portland - Spirit Sales Office
Dan Ewer
President -Pacific Northwest
Dan is responsible for the Young's Market Company business across the Pacific Northwest. He has been with Young's since 2001 and has been an integral part of the tremendous sales growth in the Northwest over the past 10 years. Dan came to the spirits & wine business after spending 13 years with Johnson and Johnson where he held a multitude of positions across their consumer products companies. His last position was National Sales Manager of McNeil Consumer Products (Tylenol). Dan holds a BA in Communications from the University of Washington.
Office Location: Kent
Chris Sarles
Executive Vice President and General Manager Oregon
As Executive Vice President and General Manager of Young's Market Company Oregon, Chris is responsible for delivering sales results and executing supplier sales initiatives in the State of Oregon while ensuring Young's delivers a high level of customer service. Chris has been with Young's Market Company for 10 years and has held various positions in Oregon and Washington including sales, marketing, and business development as well as working on the successful integration of multiple acquisitions by the company in the Northwest. Prior to Young's Chris spent 10 years as President and a partner in Alehouse Distributing, a wholesaler specializing in fine wine and craft beer. Chris holds a BS in International Business Marketing from Oregon State University
Office Location: Portland - Wine Sales Office
Andy Lytle
EVP of Sales Oregon
Andy is the Executive Vice President - Oregon for Young's Columbia. He is responsible for delivering the sales and execution of our supplier initiatives as well as providing world class customer service to our retail partners. With 18 years experience in the alcohol industry Andy has spent the last 10 years as Vice President of Sales for Mt. Hood Beverage managing a beer, wine and non-alcohol portfolio of over $350 million in revenues. Prior to that he held positions as National Sales Manager - Convenience for Coors Brewing Co in Golden, CO and also held of variety of sales and management roles with E&J Gallo Winery. Andy is a passionate community leader who devotes much of his time working with children's charity organizations and is on the board of directors for the Children's Cancer Association. Andy holds a business degree from the University of Arizona.
Office Location: Portland - Spirit Sales Office
Mark Billings
Senior Vice President of Trade Development Oregon
For over 15 years, Mark has been engaged in the wine and spirit industry throughout the Pacific Northwest. He has managed the National and Regional retail accounts in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Alaska on the supplier side as well as for Young’s Market Company as the Regional Vice President of National Accounts. Mark graduated from Portland State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology.
Office Location: Portland - Wine Sales Office
Tom Kappenman
Executive Vice President & General Manager - Washington
As Executive Vice President & General Sales Manager Tom oversees the creation and implementation of all go to market strategies related to Washington’s Sales, Trade Development and Pricing teams. He is accountable to shaping a new way of working focused on delivering a best in class focus on our People, Culture, Performance and Customers driving Young's towards the foremost expert in the Washington market. Tom re-joined Young's Market Company in February of 2011. He has over 20 years of spirit industry experience, most recently with Pernod Ricard USA where he held the position of Business Unit Director for the Desert Pacific Region. Prior to Pernod Ricard, Tom worked for Allied Domecq for three years prior to their dissolve. Tom worked for Young's Market Company from 1995 to 2003, holding various Sales and Channel Management roles.
Office Location: Kent
Lance Curtin
Vice President & General Sales Manager - Washington
Lance Curtin recently relocated to Young’s Market Company of Washington as the Vice President & General Sales Manager in January of 2012. Lance is focused on the planning, organization and execution of all company and supplier priorities for both Spirits and Wine across the On & Off-Premise channels. Lance joined Young’s Market Company of California in June of 2010 as the Branch Manager of the Inland Empire; he comes to Washington with 20 years of industry experience.
Office Location: Kent
Dodds Hayden
President Idaho
Dodds Hayden was born in Idaho and raised in the beer and wine business. After graduating from Boise High School, Dodds graduated from Bowdoin College, spent 5 years as a Marine Corps infantry officer, and attended Babson Business School. He then returned to Idaho and the family business and served as General Manager of the Sun Valley operation for eight years. Returning to Boise, he managed the on-premise division and presided over the company's operations with his father, John. When John, died in 2006, Dodds took over as president of all Hayden Beverage entities and purchased the company.
• Certified Specialist of Wine as awarded by the Society of Wine Educators.
Office Location: Boise
Dave Engen C.W.E.
Vice President of Wine - Utah, Wyoming & Montana
As Vice President of Wine - Utah, Wyoming & Montana, Dave is responsible for Wine sales for the Brokerage States of Utah, Wyoming and Montana. In Utah and Wyoming, he and his staff implement, develop, and promote Young’s portfolios to the Liquor Control Boards and directly to the customers in those market places. In Montana, he and his staff represent and market for our suppliers to the independent network of distributors.
Dave has been with Young’s since 2004. Before the Young’s Market opportunity, he was President and co-partner of Western Edge Wine and Spirits, based in Park City, Utah, for 11 years. Prior to moving to Utah in 1993, he held a wide variety of positions within the wine business, working as a Sales Representative for Wine Warehouse- Southern California, Hospitality for
Beringer Vineyards, apprentice at Langwerth von Simmern Winery in Germany, and in the family retail business at Rolf’s Wine and Spirits,
Newport Beach.
• BA in English from University of Utah
• Approaching 30 years in the Alcohol Beverage Industry
Office Location: Salt Lake City
Phillip Giordano
Vice President of Spirits for Idaho and Utah
As Vice President of Spirits, Phil is responsible for managing both of our Spirit business in Idaho and Utah. He works closely with the Liquor Control Boards and the sales teams ensuring that our supplier portfolio goals and objectives are achieved.
Phil has been with Young’s since 2005. Prior, he worked as a Sales Representative for Young’s for 10 years in Newport Beach, CA. In 1996, he partnered into an independent Wine and Spirit Brokerage in Utah and Idaho. In 2004, Phil and his business partner sold their brokerage business to Young’s Market Company, and rejoined Young’s.
BS in Business Management from University of Redlands, California.
18 years with Young’s Market Company
10 years proprietor for Western Edge Wine and Spirits- Park City, Utah
Office Location: Salt Lake City
Brett Wiensch
Vice President of Spirits Montana and Wyoming
Brett is responsible for managing our Spirits portfolio in Montana and Wyoming. After serving in the United States Navy during the first gulf war Brett managed Kroger’s convenience store concept throughout Montana before joining the Montana State Liquor Division in 2000. Brett has more than eleven years’ experience in the liquor industry, seven of them with the Young’s Market Company. Brett has worked his way up from Sale Representative, State Manager to the current role of Vice President of Montana and Wyoming.
Office Location: Helena
Ben Kordon
State Manager of Wyoming (Wine)
Ben has been with the Young’s Market Organization since 2002. He started in Eugene, Oregon for Young’s Market Company as a Sales Representative. He called on the Eugene Corvallis markets in both the on and off premise environment.
Ben moved to Laramie, Wyoming in July of 2007 and started as a Sales Representative in Southeastern Wyoming. He was promoted to State Manager in April 2008. He is responsible for working with the Wyoming Liquor Division, providing guidance for supplier partners, managing the Sales Representatives, and day to day operations of the brokerage.
Prior to coming to Young’s Market, Ben spent 13 years with Safeway Stores Inc, Portland Division, in a number of different capacities, including District Trainer, Grocery Manager and store opening/closing team.
Ben attended the University of Oregon and Lane Community College
Office Location: Cheyenne
Brian Renney
Senior Vice President of Trade Development Washington
As Senior Vice President of Trade Development, Brian collaborates with all of Young’s Wine & Spirits suppliers on their sales and execution priorities. He has been with Young’s Market Company since 1992 holding various management positions throughout the state. Brian has spent 23 years in the wine and spirits industry working with E&J Gallo in Southern California and Western Davis in Colorado, before landing in Oregon with Young’s Market Co. Brian has been an integral part of the tremendous growth and supplier consolidation in the Oregon market over the past several years.
Office Location: Kent
Allison House
Trade Marketing Director North West Division
Allison is responsible for the planning, coordinating, implementing and tracking of all on-premise initiatives for her assigned Stataes. She is also responsible for the day-to-day marketing and brand-building activities for the region working in partnership with YMCo Suppliers.
Allison joined Young’s in the Spring of 2011 with experience representing both Pernod Ricard and The Hive Inc./Brown-Forman in local key account sales and marketing roles. Prior to joining the spirits industry, Allison worked in the Promotions and Marketing department of Fisher Radio Seattle.
Education: University of Hawaii at Hilo, B.A. Communications
Office Location: Kent
Philana Bouvier
Executive Vice President General Manager Young's Market Company of Hawaii
Philana began her career in the bar and restaurant business in Hawaii that has carried her into a series of entrepreneurial pursuits and a total of 12 years experience in beverage sales and distribution. As well as working for Anheuser-Busch and Southern Wine & Spirits in Hawaii. Philana has a strong background in sales, marketing, public relations and brand building for boutique beverages and spirits. Prior to joining Young’s Market Company, Philana is also the Co-Founder for Waiwera Water USA.
In January of 2011, Philana joined Young’s Market Company as the Vice President - Director of Regional Accounts for Southern California overseeing Regional and Hotel accounts in Southern California.
Before moving to Los Angeles in 2009, Philana was a Hawaii resident of 17 years. After returning home, she has been promoted to Executive Vice President, General Manager overseeing the sales execution and operations throughout the state of Hawaii.
Office Location: Oahu
Dan Hoban
Vice President of Wine, Northern California
As Vice President of Wine, Northern California, Dan manages the Young's Market Company supplier network and establishes pricing, programming and sales direction. Dan joined Young's Market Company in October of 2010 bringing 13 years of experience in wine sales. Throughout that time he developed vast industry knowledge while working in sales and leadership positions at Seagram Chateau & Estate Wines/Diageo, Ste. Michelle Wine Estates and Pernod Ricard USA. Dan has earned his bachelor degree at San Francisco State in Hospitality Management and The Court of Master Sommeliers level one certificate.
Office Location: Union City
Kristian Jelm
State Manager of Wine Utah
Kristian Jelm is responsible for overseeing all sales aspects related to Young’s Market Company’s wine portfolio in Utah. His responsibilities include strategic planning and execution and the management of the sales staff. Kristian moved to Utah in 1995 and has been with Young’s Market Company Utah since 2005, working as a Sales Representative and Brand Manager prior to his current role. Kristian is a Certified Wine Educator and Certified Sommelier and is a graduate of the University of Utah.
Office Location: Salt Lake City
Melody Yurth
VP Sales Manager, Chain/Off-Premise
As a 23 year industry veteran (11 years in beverage alcohol), Melody’s career has focused on sales, marketing, merchandising and category management. Prior to Young’s Market Company, Melody has held positions as Divisional Manager at Advantage Webco Hawaii, Safeway Key Account Manager at Coca Cola Bottling Company and Better Brands and most recently, Vice President, Assistant General Manager, On and Off premise overseeing Diageo Spirits, Chateau and Estates and Moet Hennessy portfolio at Southern Wine and Spirits of Hawaii.
In January 2011, Melody returned to Young’s Market Company of Hawaii as Vice President, Sales Manager of Chain and Off Premise.
Office Location: Oahu
Chad Stephens
VP Sales Manager, On-Premise
Chad Stephens is currently the Vice President and Sales Manager for the On-Premise Division for the State of Hawaii where he oversees all On-Premise sales activities over 4 branches. Originally from Knoxville, TN, Chad began his career in the food and beverage industry in Los Angeles, CA where he worked alongside James Beard Award-Winning Chef at A.O.C. and held the General Manager position at Dodger Stadium Club & Suites. Prior to joining Young’s Market Company of Hawaii, Chad held the position of General Manager and Beverage Director at BLT Steak in Waikiki and Atlanta, GA. With over 17 years experience in the industry, Chad joined Young’s Market Company of Hawaii in 2010. Chad currently sits on the Board of Directors for the Hawaii Restaurant Association.
Office Location: Oahu
Terry Tatsugawa
VP Sales Manager, Big Island
Born and raised on the Island of Hawaii, Terry began his career working for a large hotel chain, Hawaii Pacific Resort while attending college. Terry joined Young’s Market Company in 1980 as a sales representative and left for a short period of time to work with a fine wine company covering three islands. Upon his return to the Young’s, Terry has held many positions including sales representative for all divisions, Division Manager and his present position as VP Sales Manager for the Big Island, where he continues to build strong relationships with all accounts, suppliers, team members, and the community where he resides.
Office Location: Big Island
Eric Fujimoto
VP Sales Manager, Kauai
Born and raised on the beautiful island of Kaua‘i, Eric started his career with Young’s Market Company of Hawai‘i after spending six years in the United States Navy. Eric attended National University in San Diego while in the United States Navy and was on staff of the United States Seventh Fleet Commander based in Yokosuka, Japan.
Eric started his passion for the business when he joined Young’s Market Company as a driver/warehouse person. Eric entered his sales career as a sales representative for the Chain/Off-Premise Division before being promoted to the On-Premise Division. Eric the first Branch Manager for the Island of Kaua‘i and has handled several Key Account Executive positions before being promoted to his current position as Vice President & Sales Manager for the Island of Kaua‘i.
Office Location: Kauai
Joe Fairchild
VP of Pricing and Programming
Joe Fairchild is responsible for all of the pricing and programming activities for Hawaii, including executing supplier initiatives, implementing sales incentives, sales budgets, and overall brand goal achievements. He has been with Young’s Market Company for six years starting first in Arizona and brings over 20 years of experience in wholesale, retail, restaurant and hotel management. Prior to joining Young’s Market Company, he held key positions with Standard Beverage Corp in Kansas, Major Brands in Missouri, Dean & Deluca, and Carneros Inn of Napa.
Office Location: Oahu
David Gochros
Director of Fine Wine for Strategic Retail
David joined Young’s Market Company in 2010 as an Educator/Fine Wine Specialist. David has over 30 years of experience in the Wine & Spirits business in Hawaii, most recently as Educator and State Manager for Remy Cointreau. Prior to that he has worked as Sommelier, Maître d’, and General Manager in some of Hawaii’s top restaurants, wine lecturer for the University of Hawaii, and in sales distributors, retailers, and brokers.
David holds a Certified Wine Educator (CWE) and Certified Specialist of Spirits (CSS) from the Society of Wine Educators, and the Advanced Certificate from The Court of Master Sommeliers. He has traveled extensively throughout various wine regions of the worlds, published several wine and spirits articles, and lectured and served on numerous panels in the wine trade.
Office Location: Oahu
Patrick Okubo
Fine Wine Educator
After graduating of the University of Hawaii at Manoa in Travel Industry Management, Patrick moved to Lanai to be a restaurant manager at The Manele Bay Hotel. Through the re branding of becoming a Four Seasons Hotel and Resort he took over the wine program for both Manele and Koele and managed Ihilani, the fine dining restaurant at Manele. Patrick moved back to O'ahu to open Formaggio Grill as General Manager.
Patrick was the Pacific / Hawaii region winner of the Chaine des Rotisseurs Young Sommelier Competition from 2008 thru 2010 and is now the Enchanson Provencal.
Patrick holds a Certified Wine Educator (CWE) and Certified Specialist of Spirits (CSS) from the Society of Wine Educators. In July 2011 Patrick became one of 192 Master Sommeliers in the world.
Office Location: Oahu
Donald Thompson
Portfolio Manager
Don Thompson is an original member of The Estates Group at Young’s Market Company and brings 35 years of experience to the team. Don began his career in the hotel industry, with Hyatt and Hilton Hotels, managing beverage, banquet, and fine dining programs. Prior to joining The Estates Group, Don worked at a prestigious fine wine distributor in Honolulu.
Don offers a vast range of experience and knowledge, specializing in working with restaurant and the independent retail trade. Don has an amazing track record for coordinating, developing and organizing dynamic and successful training seminars. His experiences offer long standing relationships with many of the most influential professionals and Hawaii wine buyers. Don has completed programs in both Guild of Master Sommeliers and Society of Wine Educators and is currently working towards a Certified Wine Educators degree (CWE).
Office Location: Oahu
Jim Hutchenson
State Manager of Wine - Montana
Jim has over 35 years of experience in the beverage alcohol industry. He served as an officer in the U.S. Army Special Forces from 1969 until 1974. His spirit and wine industry experience started with J.W. Brown and Associates in 1974 but was interrupted with graduate school and a two year position as Assistant to the President of the International Division of Wolverine World Wide. In 1978 he returned full time to the spirits and wine industry and acted as a regional broker for Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana and Utah. Since 1984, he ran his own brokerage in Montana until March 1, 2004 when he joined Levine and Sons /Young’s Market Company.
Jim has both a Liberal Arts BA from Willamette Univ. and a Masters of International Management from Thunderbird.
Office Location: Helena
Alan Suzki
VP General Sales Manager, The Estates Group
Office Location: Oahu
Jim Morton
Vice President of Sales
Jim Morton oversees all sales aspects of Young’s Idaho. After several years in the Sun Valley restaurant business, Jim joined the company in 1985. He worked his way through the organization, starting as an off premise Wine Sales Rep, and filling various supervisor and management positions (non-alcoholic division manager, off premise wine sales manager, VP sales) on his way to his current position of VP Wine Sales. Under Jim's leadership, the company's Idaho sales have increased 5-fold since 1993. Jim's direct reports include, Ritch Otto (wine manager), J.R. Doner (on-premise sales manager), Dave Lane (Eastern Idaho sales manager), and Mike Shawver (North Idaho GM).
Office Location: Boise
Ritch Otto
Wine Brand Manager
Ritch Otto was born and raised in Idaho where he graduated from Borah High School. He has a strong retail grocery background with 20 years of experience. His first employment being with Albertsons at the age of 15. He was employed 14 years with Albertsons in the Boise valley where his first job was a courtesy clerk. He worked his way into the Boise division office as a division meat sales supervisor. He has been employed with Hayden Beverage 12 years. He started out as a water salesman. After 2 years went into wine sales. He accepted the wine sales manager’s position in 2007. He manages a sales team in the Treasure Valley and is responsible for all national chain accounts except Costco.
Office Location: Boise
JR Doner
On Premise Wine Manager
As On Premise Wine Manager for the state of Idaho, J.R. oversees a team that implements, develops and promotes Young’s portfolios to the On Premise and independent specialty accounts, as well as directly to the customers throughout the state. J.R. has been with the company for 12 years. He started his career as a merchandiser and has since then held a variety of sales positions throughout the company. In 2003 J.R. accepted the position of On Premise manager for the company and has served in that role the past 8 years. JR is a graduate of Northwest Nazarene University in Idaho.
• Certified Specialist of Wine as awarded by the Society of Wine Educators.
Office Location: Boise
Karen McMillin
Fine Wine Manager (Trellis Brands)
As Fine Wine Brand Manager for Young's Market of Idaho/ Hayden Beverage Co., Karen manages the Fine Wine portion of the company's supplier network. She leads sales direction, training, and works directly with accounts state-wide to promote sales for these specialty brands. With 8 years of experience in fine wine sales, Karen joined the brokerage division of Young's Market Company in June 2007 as the Idaho State Manager of Wine. Throughout that time she developed vast industry knowledge while working in sales and leadership positions. In January of 2010 Karen joined the Young's Market of Idaho/ Hayden Beverage Co. Team as the Fine Wine Brand Manager. Karen attended Boise State University.
• Certified Specialist of Wine as awarded by the Society of Wine Educators.
Office Location: Boise
Brian Golden
Director of Education
Brian develops and oversees a variety of creative and targeted programming for our staff, our accounts and our consumers. In addition to earning both wine and spirits certifications from The Society of Wine Educators, he is also a Certified Cicerone®, an industry benchmark for the world of craft beer. Brian draws on seven years of experience at Hayden Beverage and fifteen years within the beverage and hospitality industry, serving as the General Sales Manager of our Sun Valley branch prior to moving to Boise. Brian is a graduate of Colby College in Waterville, Maine.
• Certified Specialist of Wine & Certified Specialist of Spirits as awarded by the Society of Wine Educators., Certified Cicerone
Office Location: Boise
Mike Vernia
Vice President General Manager - Washington & Oregon Chains
Mike joined Young’s Market Company in January of 2012 as the Vice President & General Manager of Northwest Chains. Mike is responsible for the planning, organization and execution of company and supplier priorities for both Spirits and Wine within all National and Local Chains. Mike holds 30 years of experience in the adult beverage industry; most recently managing the Nevada market as the Director of Off-Premise for another major US wholesaler.
Office Location: Kent
Adam Pizer
Vice President of The Estates Group - Washington & Oregon
Adam recently relocated to the Northwest in March to run The Estates Group in Washington and Oregon. Adam has been with Young’s Market Company/The Estates Group in California for the past 15 years and has a track record of proven success. His last 5 years have been successfully running The Estates Group in Orange County CA where he was Vice President of the year three years in a row. Adam will be responsible for managing and developing the Estates Group portfolio, training and building the finest wine divisions in the industry and continuing to grow our on and off premise footprint in the top restaurants and fine wine shops in the Northwest.
Office Location: Kent
