Robert Gamgort
Executive Chairman
Robert “Bob” Gamgort is the Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors for Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP). Previously, Bob served as Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board since the formation of the Company in 2018. Under his leadership, KDP has emerged as one of the largest food and beverage companies in the United States, with inclusion in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100. He was previously CEO of Keurig Green Mountain following its take-private transaction in 2016.
His 35-plus year career in consumer products and entertainment includes positions as CEO of Pinnacle Foods, North American President of Mars Inc., and President of Major League Baseball Properties, as well as a progression of marketing, sales, strategy and general management roles at General Foods and Kraft Foods. His career has been marked by numerous brand and company turnarounds, innovation and new business creation as well as the highly successful Pinnacle Foods IPO and more than a dozen significant M&A transactions. Bob serves as a Director and Chair of the Compensation Committee for National Veterinary Associates, Inc. (NVA), a leading pet healthcare company. He is also on the Board of Chobani, producer of one of America’s leading yogurt brands as well as dairy- and plant-based creamers, plant-based probiotic drinks and owner of La Colombe, a super premium coffee company. He formerly was a Board member of Wayfair Inc. (NYSE: W), Trustee for Bucknell University, Director for the New Jersey State Employment Training Commission and Trustee for Schiff Natural Lands Trust.
Bob holds an MBA in marketing and finance from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University, a BA in Economics from Bucknell University and studied at the London School of Economics. He has been recognized for his influence in marketing, sports business and the beverage industry, including BEVNET’s “Person of the Year” award in 2018.
His 35-plus year career in consumer products and entertainment includes positions as CEO of Pinnacle Foods, North American President of Mars Inc., and President of Major League Baseball Properties, as well as a progression of marketing, sales, strategy and general management roles at General Foods and Kraft Foods. His career has been marked by numerous brand and company turnarounds, innovation and new business creation as well as the highly successful Pinnacle Foods IPO and more than a dozen significant M&A transactions. Bob serves as a Director and Chair of the Compensation Committee for National Veterinary Associates, Inc. (NVA), a leading pet healthcare company. He is also on the Board of Chobani, producer of one of America’s leading yogurt brands as well as dairy- and plant-based creamers, plant-based probiotic drinks and owner of La Colombe, a super premium coffee company. He formerly was a Board member of Wayfair Inc. (NYSE: W), Trustee for Bucknell University, Director for the New Jersey State Employment Training Commission and Trustee for Schiff Natural Lands Trust.
Bob holds an MBA in marketing and finance from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University, a BA in Economics from Bucknell University and studied at the London School of Economics. He has been recognized for his influence in marketing, sports business and the beverage industry, including BEVNET’s “Person of the Year” award in 2018.
Melody Richard
Senior Vice President
A passionate leader who is committed to delivering results, serving customers and driving diversity and inclusion, Melody Richard is the Senior Vice President of Pantry for Walmart US. This includes all shelf stable grocery items including dry grocery, snacks, and beverages. She is honored to work on such an important business that ensures our customers can Save Money and Live Better.
Prior to this role, Melody was the Merchandising VP of Pets for Walmart US. She led a cross-functional team to deliver upon pet parents needs and serve the over 70% of US households with pets. Melody joined Walmart over five years ago leading the Walmart US Baby store business.
Prior to joining Walmart, she held leadership roles at Coca-Cola for 20 years in Operations, U.S. Sales, International Commercial Leadership, and Emerging Brands. At Coke, she led the Midwest D&I Council, served as VP of Women's LINC (associate resource group) and led the NEW (NextUp) Regional efforts.
As an industry leader, Melody serves as a National Board Member of the Food Marketing Institute (FMI) and Food Research and Action Center (FRAC). She is the co-sponsor for Walmart's national 2024 Fight Hunger Spark Change Campaign. She is also heavily invested in ensuring that the Pantry Team leads the way in the industry with Walmart regeneration efforts.
She has been a key leader for inclusion inside Walmart as a member of Walmart Women's Officer Caucus and Women's Resource Group. She represents Walmart as Secretary on the National Board for NextUp, a leading non-profit focused on advancing all women and was the first recipient of the NextUp National Inclusion Award.
In the local community, she has led the Peel Mansion Giving Event 2023, NWA Food Bank Jewels of Giving Event 2023, Big Brothers Big Sisters Events, The Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year Co-Chair 2024, 2020 and 2019, Sip and Savor 2023, Sharing and Caring 2023, served on The Jones Center Council, is active with the American Diabetes Association, the Best Friends Pet Resource Center and the American Heart Association. Melody is committed to supporting women in the workplace, families in the community and the overall health and wellbeing of associates and customers.
Prior to this role, Melody was the Merchandising VP of Pets for Walmart US. She led a cross-functional team to deliver upon pet parents needs and serve the over 70% of US households with pets. Melody joined Walmart over five years ago leading the Walmart US Baby store business.
Prior to joining Walmart, she held leadership roles at Coca-Cola for 20 years in Operations, U.S. Sales, International Commercial Leadership, and Emerging Brands. At Coke, she led the Midwest D&I Council, served as VP of Women's LINC (associate resource group) and led the NEW (NextUp) Regional efforts.
As an industry leader, Melody serves as a National Board Member of the Food Marketing Institute (FMI) and Food Research and Action Center (FRAC). She is the co-sponsor for Walmart's national 2024 Fight Hunger Spark Change Campaign. She is also heavily invested in ensuring that the Pantry Team leads the way in the industry with Walmart regeneration efforts.
She has been a key leader for inclusion inside Walmart as a member of Walmart Women's Officer Caucus and Women's Resource Group. She represents Walmart as Secretary on the National Board for NextUp, a leading non-profit focused on advancing all women and was the first recipient of the NextUp National Inclusion Award.
In the local community, she has led the Peel Mansion Giving Event 2023, NWA Food Bank Jewels of Giving Event 2023, Big Brothers Big Sisters Events, The Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year Co-Chair 2024, 2020 and 2019, Sip and Savor 2023, Sharing and Caring 2023, served on The Jones Center Council, is active with the American Diabetes Association, the Best Friends Pet Resource Center and the American Heart Association. Melody is committed to supporting women in the workplace, families in the community and the overall health and wellbeing of associates and customers.
Jack Sinclair
CEO
Jack Sinclair, our chief executive officer and board member, brings more than 35 years of experience in retail and grocery to Sprouts since joining the company in June 2019. He has served as a board member of FMI – The Food Industry Association since 2020 and was appointed to the Los Angeles branch board of directors of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco in January 2021.
Jack was previously chief executive officer of 99 Cents Only Stores LLC, a premier discount retailer with over 350 locations in the United States, since 2018. Prior to that, he was chief merchandising officer from 2015 to 2018.
From 2007 to 2015, Jack was the executive vice president of the U.S. Grocery Division of Walmart, Inc., where he led all aspects of Walmart's U.S. grocery business at its more than 4,000 stores, which generated substantial growth under his leadership through a focus on local assortment and fresh foods.
Jack also spent 14 years at Safeway PLC in London where he was responsible for operations, merchandising and marketing for over 450 Safeway supermarket and convenience store locations throughout the United Kingdom. He served on the board of directors of The Hain Celestial Group, a leading marketer, manufacturer and seller of organic and natural products, from September 2017 to June 2019.
Jack earned a bachelor's degree in economics and marketing from The University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland.
Jack was previously chief executive officer of 99 Cents Only Stores LLC, a premier discount retailer with over 350 locations in the United States, since 2018. Prior to that, he was chief merchandising officer from 2015 to 2018.
From 2007 to 2015, Jack was the executive vice president of the U.S. Grocery Division of Walmart, Inc., where he led all aspects of Walmart's U.S. grocery business at its more than 4,000 stores, which generated substantial growth under his leadership through a focus on local assortment and fresh foods.
Jack also spent 14 years at Safeway PLC in London where he was responsible for operations, merchandising and marketing for over 450 Safeway supermarket and convenience store locations throughout the United Kingdom. He served on the board of directors of The Hain Celestial Group, a leading marketer, manufacturer and seller of organic and natural products, from September 2017 to June 2019.
Jack earned a bachelor's degree in economics and marketing from The University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland.
Troy Rice
CEO
Troy Rice is the CEO of Total Wine & More, the largest independent retailer of fine wine in the United States. Since joining the company in 2017 as Chief Stores Officer, he has led the Stores Organization through significant milestones, including navigating the pandemic, innovating digital processes, developing talent, supporting real estate initiatives, and enhancing customer experience.
Previously, Troy held senior leadership roles at Office Depot, Toys R Us, and The Home Depot, where he gained extensive experience in retail operations and omni-channel efforts.
His retail career began at his father's grocery store, where he learned the importance of customer service, teamwork, and work ethic. Troy draws inspiration from his mentors, Home Depot Founders Bernie Marcus and Arthur Blank, and emphasizes fostering core values in his team to improve productivity, processes, and customer experience.
Previously, Troy held senior leadership roles at Office Depot, Toys R Us, and The Home Depot, where he gained extensive experience in retail operations and omni-channel efforts.
His retail career began at his father's grocery store, where he learned the importance of customer service, teamwork, and work ethic. Troy draws inspiration from his mentors, Home Depot Founders Bernie Marcus and Arthur Blank, and emphasizes fostering core values in his team to improve productivity, processes, and customer experience.
Bonnie Herzog
Managing Director & Senior Consumer Analyst
Bonnie Herzog is a managing director and senior consumer analyst at Goldman Sachs covering the beverage, tobacco and convenience store sectors. During her 20 plus years of experience as a sell-side equity research analyst, Bonnie has been a top-ranked Institutional Investor analyst.
For more than ten years, Bonnie has been recognized by Institutional Investor magazine for the All-America Research Team. Prior to Joining Goldman Sachs in December 2019, Bonnie was a managing director at Wells Fargo and Citi Investment Research.
Bonnie is best known for her in-depth proprietary research and successful contrarian stocks calls. She has been a guest speaker at numerous tobacco, beverage and convenience store industry conferences.
Bonnie earned an MBA degree in finance from the Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a BA degree in finance from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota.
For more than ten years, Bonnie has been recognized by Institutional Investor magazine for the All-America Research Team. Prior to Joining Goldman Sachs in December 2019, Bonnie was a managing director at Wells Fargo and Citi Investment Research.
Bonnie is best known for her in-depth proprietary research and successful contrarian stocks calls. She has been a guest speaker at numerous tobacco, beverage and convenience store industry conferences.
Bonnie earned an MBA degree in finance from the Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a BA degree in finance from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Caroline Levy
Board Member
Caroline Levy is the founder of CLAS, an advisory firm in the consumer space. Ms. Levy serves as a public and private company Director on the boards of Celsius Holdings (CELH) and Health-Ade Kombucha, and is a member of both the Audit and Nominating/Governance committees at both companies.
Ms. Levy had a renowned career as a consumer stock analyst for over thirty years, covering large and small companies across soft drinks, alcohol, cosmetics, household products, food, restaurants, and hotels. She was ranked by both the Institutional Investor and Wall Street Journal surveys as one of the top analysts in her sector. Her tenure has included senior analyst roles at Lehman Brothers, UBS, CLSA and Macquarie.
At UBS, Caroline was promoted to COO of US research, where she chaired the investment review committee, directed the vetting process for investment banking transactions, and oversaw the over 100-person associate analyst team. Her strategic reports uncovered key consumer trends well before they became mainstream, such as "value in values" and the squeeze on mid-size companies to the benefit of small innovators and large retailers and brands.
Her work with Citic's on-the-ground team, "China Reality Research," revealed unrecognized value in the Chinese operations of companies such as Estée Lauder, and uncovered risks in others (P&G in diapers). Ms. Levy's network spans CEOs and executives across public and private brand-owners and distributors, allowing her to key into trends and risks across industries. Long-standing relationships with sell-side and buy-side analysts and portfolio managers, give Ms. Levy a clear view into shifting investing and valuation methods.
Caroline joined the board of Celsius Holdings (CELH) in July 2020, a public company selling one of the fastest growing energy drinks in the category. She is a member of the audit and nominating committees. Ms. Levy was appointed to the board of Health-Ade Kombucha, a private-equity owned company.
Ms. Levy is a member of Extraordinary Women on Boards (EWOB), a prestigious organization dedicated to educating and furthering the success of women on private and public for-profit boards. She is an advisor to Founded, a Los Angeles-based organization of female founders in the wellness space and will be an advisor to their newly established investment fund.
Ms. Levy had a renowned career as a consumer stock analyst for over thirty years, covering large and small companies across soft drinks, alcohol, cosmetics, household products, food, restaurants, and hotels. She was ranked by both the Institutional Investor and Wall Street Journal surveys as one of the top analysts in her sector. Her tenure has included senior analyst roles at Lehman Brothers, UBS, CLSA and Macquarie.
At UBS, Caroline was promoted to COO of US research, where she chaired the investment review committee, directed the vetting process for investment banking transactions, and oversaw the over 100-person associate analyst team. Her strategic reports uncovered key consumer trends well before they became mainstream, such as "value in values" and the squeeze on mid-size companies to the benefit of small innovators and large retailers and brands.
Her work with Citic's on-the-ground team, "China Reality Research," revealed unrecognized value in the Chinese operations of companies such as Estée Lauder, and uncovered risks in others (P&G in diapers). Ms. Levy's network spans CEOs and executives across public and private brand-owners and distributors, allowing her to key into trends and risks across industries. Long-standing relationships with sell-side and buy-side analysts and portfolio managers, give Ms. Levy a clear view into shifting investing and valuation methods.
Caroline joined the board of Celsius Holdings (CELH) in July 2020, a public company selling one of the fastest growing energy drinks in the category. She is a member of the audit and nominating committees. Ms. Levy was appointed to the board of Health-Ade Kombucha, a private-equity owned company.
Ms. Levy is a member of Extraordinary Women on Boards (EWOB), a prestigious organization dedicated to educating and furthering the success of women on private and public for-profit boards. She is an advisor to Founded, a Los Angeles-based organization of female founders in the wellness space and will be an advisor to their newly established investment fund.
Robbert Ottenstein
Senior Managing Director & Partner
Robert Ottenstein is a senior managing director and head of the Global Beverages and Household Products Team. Mr. Ottenstein most recently was ranked No. 3 in Institutional Investor's 2022 and 2021 All-America Research poll for the beverage, household & personal care sector, after claiming a runner-up position in 2019.
Before joining Evercore ISI, Mr. Ottenstein headed investor relations for Anheuser-Busch InBev shortly after InBev's acquisition of Anheuser-Busch. Previously, he was with Morgan Stanley, where he served as a managing director in investment banking as well as an II ranked specialty chemical analyst and the sector leader for the firm's global basic materials group.
Mr. Ottenstein earned a B.A. from Swarthmore College, a B.A./M.A. in philosophy, politics and economics at Oxford University and an MBA from Stanford.
Before joining Evercore ISI, Mr. Ottenstein headed investor relations for Anheuser-Busch InBev shortly after InBev's acquisition of Anheuser-Busch. Previously, he was with Morgan Stanley, where he served as a managing director in investment banking as well as an II ranked specialty chemical analyst and the sector leader for the firm's global basic materials group.
Mr. Ottenstein earned a B.A. from Swarthmore College, a B.A./M.A. in philosophy, politics and economics at Oxford University and an MBA from Stanford.
Brian Albert
Sr. Category Manager
Brian Albert manages the merchandising and assortment for non-alcoholic beverages at Sprouts Farmers Market. Over a 30-year career, Brian has had various positions in marketing, merchandising, and product development with stops at Campbell’s, Coors, Wild Oats, Giant Eagle, and Sprouts. Those experiences coupled with his marketing and entrepreneurial management degrees from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School and the University of Colorado, Brian has a unique perspective on what it takes to create and maintain a successful beverage brand.
Daniel Scharff
Founder & CEO
Daniel Scharff is the Founder/CEO of Startup CPG, the world's biggest CPG community, providing major resources and media coverage for emerging food & beverage brands.
He's a former beverage CEO, having launched Machu Picchu from scratch and making it the fastest growth brand in the natural channel before departing the business in 2023 to focus on Startup CPG full-time.
He's a former beverage CEO, having launched Machu Picchu from scratch and making it the fastest growth brand in the natural channel before departing the business in 2023 to focus on Startup CPG full-time.
Christi Frizzell
Sr. Director Store Innovation
Christi Frizzell is all about driving innovation and making things happen. As the Senior Director of 7-Ventures & Business Development at 7-Eleven, she's the powerhouse behind a large portfolio generating an impactful revenue stream, scouting the next big thing in beverages and beyond. With an eye for game-changing brands and a knack for building strong, value-driven partnerships, Christi is shaping the future of retail one sip at a time.
With over two decades in the industry, Christi has led the charge in category management, strategic sourcing, customer loyalty and operations—constantly pushing the envelope to deliver big results. Her passion? Creating growth opportunities through creative solutions and a deep understanding of what customers crave. She's driven by the power of people, processes, and partnership, and her track record speaks for itself—always ahead of the curve, always delivering more.
A proud Ohio State University alum, Christi blends data-driven insights with an intuitive feel for customer trends, making her a standout leader in the fast-paced, ever-evolving retail world. Whether it's optimizing operations or building high-impact teams, Christi's strategic vision and people-first approach make her a dynamic force ready to take on the next big challenge.
With over two decades in the industry, Christi has led the charge in category management, strategic sourcing, customer loyalty and operations—constantly pushing the envelope to deliver big results. Her passion? Creating growth opportunities through creative solutions and a deep understanding of what customers crave. She's driven by the power of people, processes, and partnership, and her track record speaks for itself—always ahead of the curve, always delivering more.
A proud Ohio State University alum, Christi blends data-driven insights with an intuitive feel for customer trends, making her a standout leader in the fast-paced, ever-evolving retail world. Whether it's optimizing operations or building high-impact teams, Christi's strategic vision and people-first approach make her a dynamic force ready to take on the next big challenge.
Ken Sadowsky
Senior Beverage Advisor
Named "The Beverage Whisperer" by Forbes, Ken Sadowsky is an astute trend identifier and a 25-year veteran of the beverage industry. He was an early distributor of vitaminwater, among the first to distribute Snapple, Red Bull, and Monster. Later he joined the board of GLACEAU, the parent company of vitaminwater & smartwater.
Today, Ken is the Senior Beverage Advisor for Verlinvest, the diversification vehicle of the Belgian InBev family with over $2B deployed across 20 portfolio companies. Ken sits on the board of directors for Vita Coco (COCO), Hint Water, and LifeAID, and was previously an advisor for Bai and Essentia Water.
Ken continues to advise and invest in new companies to this day.
Today, Ken is the Senior Beverage Advisor for Verlinvest, the diversification vehicle of the Belgian InBev family with over $2B deployed across 20 portfolio companies. Ken sits on the board of directors for Vita Coco (COCO), Hint Water, and LifeAID, and was previously an advisor for Bai and Essentia Water.
Ken continues to advise and invest in new companies to this day.
Chris Stewart
Vice President of Merchandising
Chris joined Casey's in May 2020 as Director of Packaged Beverages. In November 2021, he transitioned to Division Vice President of Store Operations before returning to the Iowa Store Support Center for his current role in May 2023.
As Vice President of Merchandising, he leads a team responsible for merchandising strategy development, product assortment, pricing, promotions, space and floor planning, and vendor management.
Prior to joining Casey's, Chris held various merchandising and operations roles at 7-Eleven and the e-commerce retailer goPuff. He earned a Master of Business Administration from the Australian Institute of Business and completed his undergraduate studies in business and psychology at Arizona State University, where he also played tennis.
As Vice President of Merchandising, he leads a team responsible for merchandising strategy development, product assortment, pricing, promotions, space and floor planning, and vendor management.
Prior to joining Casey's, Chris held various merchandising and operations roles at 7-Eleven and the e-commerce retailer goPuff. He earned a Master of Business Administration from the Australian Institute of Business and completed his undergraduate studies in business and psychology at Arizona State University, where he also played tennis.
Ryan Lewendon
Partner
As a partner at Giannuzzi Lewendon, LLP, Ryan Lewendon has had over 12 years of experience in providing legal services to emerging and established companies in the natural products industry. Ryan specializes in mergers and acquisitions, marketing law, and corporate law, and he has successfully negotiated and closed multiple deals for clients ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies.
He is also passionate about supporting the health and wellbeing of low-income communities and the growth and innovation of the local CPG community. That is why he serves as a board member at Wellfare, a nonprofit that raises the standard of health and wellbeing for low-income communities, and at Naturally New York, a nonprofit that connects entrepreneurs, investors, and service providers in the natural products industry.
Ryan brings diverse perspectives and experiences to these roles, and he aims to empower, facilitate, and enable the success of the organizations and the people they serve.
He is also passionate about supporting the health and wellbeing of low-income communities and the growth and innovation of the local CPG community. That is why he serves as a board member at Wellfare, a nonprofit that raises the standard of health and wellbeing for low-income communities, and at Naturally New York, a nonprofit that connects entrepreneurs, investors, and service providers in the natural products industry.
Ryan brings diverse perspectives and experiences to these roles, and he aims to empower, facilitate, and enable the success of the organizations and the people they serve.
Mike Cessario
Founder & CEO
Mike Cessario is the founder & CEO of Liquid Death, one of the fastest growing non-alcoholic beverage brands. Liquid Death uses comedy and entertainment to make health and sustainability 50 times more fun. We take the healthiest things you can drink and package it into infinitely recyclable cans that compete with the fun marketing of unhealthy brands across energy drinks, beer, and junk food. Our product lines include mountain water, sparkling mountain water, sparkling flavored water, iced tea, and our hydration sticks, Death Dust. A portion of Liquid Death's proceeds goes to nonprofits who are helping fight plastic pollution and bring clean drinking water to those in need.
Prior to Liquid Death, Mike worked in the agency world as a creative executive at Doner, VaynerMedia, Crispin Porter Bogusky, and Humanaut. His agency work spanned brands including Netflix, Organic Valley, Dominos, Toyota and more.
Prior to Liquid Death, Mike worked in the agency world as a creative executive at Doner, VaynerMedia, Crispin Porter Bogusky, and Humanaut. His agency work spanned brands including Netflix, Organic Valley, Dominos, Toyota and more.
Shawn Darmody
Vice President - Merchandising, Snacks, Beverages, Candy & Impulse
Shawn Darmody is Vice President of merchandising at Target. He has spent over 20 years developing strategies that result in scalable, sustainable growth within Fortune 500 companies (Target, 3M, Ford Motor Company). He is energized by delivering sizable, scalable growth, developing partnerships, and unlocking the potential of people.
He excels in turning around complex business performance, developing innovative private label brands, optimizing retail space, and creating digital channel sales opportunities. He thrives on building mutually beneficial partnerships with both legacy and emerging brands and fostering team cultures centered on development, empowerment, inclusivity, and connection.
He excels in turning around complex business performance, developing innovative private label brands, optimizing retail space, and creating digital channel sales opportunities. He thrives on building mutually beneficial partnerships with both legacy and emerging brands and fostering team cultures centered on development, empowerment, inclusivity, and connection.
Clayton Christopher
Managing Partner
Clayton Christopher is a Managing Partner at Astó Consumer Partners. He is a serial entrepreneur and respected CPG investor known for founding Sweet Leaf Tea (acquired by Nestlé), Deep Eddy Vodka (acquired by Heaven Hill Distilleries), and Waterloo Sparkling Water (acquired by Flexis Capital).
As the Co-founder and former Managing Partner at CAVU Ventures, he managed ~$550 million in assets across two funds. A two-time Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award winner in Central Texas, he is also a Co-founder and board member of SKU, the largest CPG accelerator in the U.S.
As the Co-founder and former Managing Partner at CAVU Ventures, he managed ~$550 million in assets across two funds. A two-time Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award winner in Central Texas, he is also a Co-founder and board member of SKU, the largest CPG accelerator in the U.S.
Joseph Escobar
National Category Director
22 Years of Experience: Joe started his career as a Bagger at Jewel-Osco 22 years ago which started his career in the grocery industry, accumulating valuable insights and expertise.
Current Role is National Category Director over Carbonated and Non-Carbonated Beverage.
Past Roles include NCD of Pasta, Soup, Ready to Eat Meals and Prepared Sides, ACM of Meat, Seafood, Grocery Pantry, Beer, Wine and Spirits as well as multiple different roles in stores at Jewel-Osco.
Current Role is National Category Director over Carbonated and Non-Carbonated Beverage.
Past Roles include NCD of Pasta, Soup, Ready to Eat Meals and Prepared Sides, ACM of Meat, Seafood, Grocery Pantry, Beer, Wine and Spirits as well as multiple different roles in stores at Jewel-Osco.
Taylor Cathala
Spirits Senior Category Merchant
I have worked in the adult beverage retail space for over 13 years and currently am the Spirits Senior Category Merchant at Whole Foods Market covering all US & Canada stores. I have held various merchant roles in the past, but very grateful to be fully devoted to Spirits as it slowly has turned into a personal passion as well as my work life.
When not reviewing fun and innovative products at work, I enjoy spending time with my wife & son exploring all Sonoma County has to offer with its beautiful parks and running trails.
When not reviewing fun and innovative products at work, I enjoy spending time with my wife & son exploring all Sonoma County has to offer with its beautiful parks and running trails.
Deb Conklin
President & CEO
Deb Conklin is the President and Chief Executive Officer of KeHE Distributors, the nation's largest privately held fresh, natural and organic, and specialty food distributor. She is known as a growth change agent that inspires Goodness.
Prior to KeHE, Ms. Conklin was the Chief Executive Officer of Reddy Ice, the nation's largest manufacturer and distributer of packaged ice. In that role, she collaborated with numerous customers that work with KeHE today. Concurrently, she served on KeHE's Board of Directors.
Prior to Reddy Ice, she was the Chief Executive Officer of Pei Wei Asian Diner, as a member of the Centerbridge Partners operating group. She also held an Operations Advisor position in the operations group at TPG Capital. Ms. Conklin has experience in several different vertical businesses and board positions that served industrial, distribution, manufacturing, hospitality, and financial services, all during her tenure at TPG Capital and Centerbridge Partners operating groups.
Ms. Conklin holds a Masters of Business Administration from Queens College. She also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering from Clemson University and continues to serve on the Clemson Alumni Board.
Prior to KeHE, Ms. Conklin was the Chief Executive Officer of Reddy Ice, the nation's largest manufacturer and distributer of packaged ice. In that role, she collaborated with numerous customers that work with KeHE today. Concurrently, she served on KeHE's Board of Directors.
Prior to Reddy Ice, she was the Chief Executive Officer of Pei Wei Asian Diner, as a member of the Centerbridge Partners operating group. She also held an Operations Advisor position in the operations group at TPG Capital. Ms. Conklin has experience in several different vertical businesses and board positions that served industrial, distribution, manufacturing, hospitality, and financial services, all during her tenure at TPG Capital and Centerbridge Partners operating groups.
Ms. Conklin holds a Masters of Business Administration from Queens College. She also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering from Clemson University and continues to serve on the Clemson Alumni Board.
Christopher Hunter
Co-Founder & CEO of Koia
Co-Founder of Four Loko
Co-Founder of Four Loko
Chris Hunter is a successful entrepreneur focused on creating, investing in, and scaling pioneering brands. He is the Co-Founder of iconic alcohol brands Four Loko and Not Your Father's Root Beer, and plant based brand, Koia.
As CEO of Koia, he has led the brand to become the leader in refrigerated plant based protein, with distribution into over 35,000 retail locations across the country including Whole Foods, Starbucks, Kroger, 7 Eleven and is currently focused on scaling Koia into the leading plant-based nutritional platform through both category and channel expansion.
Furthermore, Hunter founded Perspective Projects, his private equity arm, in 2016, which has invested in brands such as Ghost, Factor, Wilde, Vive Organics, among others. Hunter grew up in Northeast Ohio and graduated from Ohio State University with a bachelor's degree in Business Administration & Marketing and currently lives in Miami with his wife and three young sons.
As CEO of Koia, he has led the brand to become the leader in refrigerated plant based protein, with distribution into over 35,000 retail locations across the country including Whole Foods, Starbucks, Kroger, 7 Eleven and is currently focused on scaling Koia into the leading plant-based nutritional platform through both category and channel expansion.
Furthermore, Hunter founded Perspective Projects, his private equity arm, in 2016, which has invested in brands such as Ghost, Factor, Wilde, Vive Organics, among others. Hunter grew up in Northeast Ohio and graduated from Ohio State University with a bachelor's degree in Business Administration & Marketing and currently lives in Miami with his wife and three young sons.
Eric Blumenthal
Sr. Vice President, Foodservice Commercial and Growth
Eric has been at Coca-Cola for 18 years and currently leads the Foodservice Commercial and Growth Organization for Coca-Cola's Foodservice an On-Premise Division in North America. In this role, he oversees Coca-Cola's Foodservice and On-Premise Channel Strategies, Product and Equipment Innovation, Insights, Digital, Technology, Business Development, Inside Sales, and the Coke Lab.
Before this role, Eric led Coca-Cola's global relationship with Roark Capital and their restaurant Brands. Over his career, he has worked across North America Operating Unit in various capacities including leading our partnership with Chick-fil-A and other global Foodservice Customers. Additionally, he has worked in Foodservice Supply Chain and Operations, Franchise and Commercial Leadership, Brand Management, and Local Market Foodservice.
Eric represents Coca-Cola on the board of IFMA and sits on the Board of the Jack and Jill Late-Stage Cancer Foundation. He is also an active participant in NEXTUP and the Women's Foodservice Forum. He has a bachelor's degree in business management from Washington College, where he played basketball.
Away from Coke, he and his wife Brittany live in Kennesaw, GA, with their two boys, Camden (11), and Bennett (9), and twin girls Anderson (4) and Evelyn (4). Eric is an active member in his community and church. He is a self-described "Dad-Vocate" and has started a group called Legacy Makers for dads in his community, as well as a Podcast called; "Legacy Makers: A Conversation for Dads." He enjoys family time, traveling, running, and coaching his kids' basketball teams.
Before this role, Eric led Coca-Cola's global relationship with Roark Capital and their restaurant Brands. Over his career, he has worked across North America Operating Unit in various capacities including leading our partnership with Chick-fil-A and other global Foodservice Customers. Additionally, he has worked in Foodservice Supply Chain and Operations, Franchise and Commercial Leadership, Brand Management, and Local Market Foodservice.
Eric represents Coca-Cola on the board of IFMA and sits on the Board of the Jack and Jill Late-Stage Cancer Foundation. He is also an active participant in NEXTUP and the Women's Foodservice Forum. He has a bachelor's degree in business management from Washington College, where he played basketball.
Away from Coke, he and his wife Brittany live in Kennesaw, GA, with their two boys, Camden (11), and Bennett (9), and twin girls Anderson (4) and Evelyn (4). Eric is an active member in his community and church. He is a self-described "Dad-Vocate" and has started a group called Legacy Makers for dads in his community, as well as a Podcast called; "Legacy Makers: A Conversation for Dads." He enjoys family time, traveling, running, and coaching his kids' basketball teams.
Kim Coffin
Senior Vice President & Chief Forager
Kim Coffin, our Senior Vice President and Chief Forager, joined Sprouts in 2012 and brings over 30 years of experience in the grocery space, strengthening product categories and building strong partnerships with our vendors. Prior to her current role, Kim served as vice president of grocery at Sprouts for eight years.
Before joining Sprouts, Kim held various leadership roles at Sunflower Farmers Market. From 1987 to 2010, Kim worked in grocery sales for Albertsons.
Kim earned a bachelor's degree in business from Portland State University.
Before joining Sprouts, Kim held various leadership roles at Sunflower Farmers Market. From 1987 to 2010, Kim worked in grocery sales for Albertsons.
Kim earned a bachelor's degree in business from Portland State University.
Jake Bullock
Co-Founder & CEO of Cann Social Tonics
Jake is the Co-Founder & CEO of Cann, the THC-infused social beverage company that's changing the way people socialize by providing a range of micro-dosed beverages that are better-for-you alcohol alternatives made with simple, all-natural ingredients.
Prior to Cann, Jake was an associate at Bain Capital's North American Private Equity fund evaluating potential investment opportunities with a specific focus in the consumer space. Prior to joining Bain Capital, Jake worked at Bain & Company in the San Francisco office on strategy and due diligence projects across technology, healthcare, private equity, and hedge funds. Prior to that, he worked as an investment banking analyst at Allen & Company in New York providing M&A advisory services.
Jake graduated summa cum laude from Duke University with a B.S. in Economics and Political Science and received his M.B.A. from Stanford University.
Prior to Cann, Jake was an associate at Bain Capital's North American Private Equity fund evaluating potential investment opportunities with a specific focus in the consumer space. Prior to joining Bain Capital, Jake worked at Bain & Company in the San Francisco office on strategy and due diligence projects across technology, healthcare, private equity, and hedge funds. Prior to that, he worked as an investment banking analyst at Allen & Company in New York providing M&A advisory services.
Jake graduated summa cum laude from Duke University with a B.S. in Economics and Political Science and received his M.B.A. from Stanford University.
Buster Houston
VP National Merchandising
Meet Buster Houston, the Vice President of National Merchandising for Ready-to-Eat products at Albertson's Companies. With a 34-year career between Safeway and Albertson's Companies, Buster has a wealth of experience in the industry. In his current role, he oversees a wide range of products, including snacks, spreads, cereal, nutrition, candy, tobacco, books, magazines, and check stands.
He leads a team of 6 National Category Directors, 10 Assistant Category Directors, 2 Department Specialists, and 2 Financial Analysts. Buster's past roles have included Meat & Seafood, Produce, Marketing Systems & Processes, Loyalty, Merchandising Strategy, and Store Roles.
He holds a BS degree in business marketing from Western Washington University and is currently a board member for Albertsons Companies' National WIIN (Women's Inspiration & Inclusion) Network.
He leads a team of 6 National Category Directors, 10 Assistant Category Directors, 2 Department Specialists, and 2 Financial Analysts. Buster's past roles have included Meat & Seafood, Produce, Marketing Systems & Processes, Loyalty, Merchandising Strategy, and Store Roles.
He holds a BS degree in business marketing from Western Washington University and is currently a board member for Albertsons Companies' National WIIN (Women's Inspiration & Inclusion) Network.
Jason Strauss
Co-CEO
Jason Strauss is a well-known and highly regarded hospitality industry veteran with well over 30 years of hands-on experience as an operator and developer of premium hospitality venues. A native New Yorker, Strauss and his partners are the masterminds behind some of the most successful and innovative hospitality brands of the past two decades.
Tao Group Hospitality delivers distinctive culinary and premium entertainment experiences through its portfolio of restaurants, nightclubs, lounges, and daylife venues. Tao Group Hospitality acquired Hakkasan Group in April 2021. The combined company operates over 80 branded locations in over 20 markets across four continents and features a collection of widely recognized hospitality brands. These include TAO, Hakkasan, OMNIA, Marquee, LAVO, Beauty & Essex, Wet Republic, Yauatcha, Ling Ling, Cathédrale, Little Sister, The Highlight Room, Sake No Hana, Jewel, and more. Tao Group Hospitality is part of Mohari Hospitality, an investment firm focused on the luxury lifestyle and hospitality sectors.
Among Strauss' many endeavors, he prioritizes charity work by volunteering with Inspiring Children and Tao Group Hospitality Cares. He graduated from Boston University in 1997 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications and Hospitality Management and currently splits his time between Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
Tao Group Hospitality delivers distinctive culinary and premium entertainment experiences through its portfolio of restaurants, nightclubs, lounges, and daylife venues. Tao Group Hospitality acquired Hakkasan Group in April 2021. The combined company operates over 80 branded locations in over 20 markets across four continents and features a collection of widely recognized hospitality brands. These include TAO, Hakkasan, OMNIA, Marquee, LAVO, Beauty & Essex, Wet Republic, Yauatcha, Ling Ling, Cathédrale, Little Sister, The Highlight Room, Sake No Hana, Jewel, and more. Tao Group Hospitality is part of Mohari Hospitality, an investment firm focused on the luxury lifestyle and hospitality sectors.
Among Strauss' many endeavors, he prioritizes charity work by volunteering with Inspiring Children and Tao Group Hospitality Cares. He graduated from Boston University in 1997 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications and Hospitality Management and currently splits his time between Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
Wayne Wu
General Partner
Wayne Wu is a General Partner at VMG Partners. VMG Partners works intimately with founders and leaders of branded consumer product companies, providing the resources and guidance needed to propel them to their next level of growth and value.
Beyond capital, Wayne provides a value-added investment philosophy that pulls from his decades of experience, strategic guidance, and passionate focus to help our brands accelerate growth, increase brand awareness, and achieve their own definition of success. VMG has worked closely and successfully with brands such as Ancient Nutrition, Drunk Elephant, Humm Kombucha, Justin's, KIND, Nature's Bakery, Perfect Snacks, Quest, and Spindrift, to name a few.
Wayne is energized by the next generation of innovative, consumer product entrepreneurs, and looks forward to helping them fully realize their vision. Wayne is based in San Francisco, CA.
Beyond capital, Wayne provides a value-added investment philosophy that pulls from his decades of experience, strategic guidance, and passionate focus to help our brands accelerate growth, increase brand awareness, and achieve their own definition of success. VMG has worked closely and successfully with brands such as Ancient Nutrition, Drunk Elephant, Humm Kombucha, Justin's, KIND, Nature's Bakery, Perfect Snacks, Quest, and Spindrift, to name a few.
Wayne is energized by the next generation of innovative, consumer product entrepreneurs, and looks forward to helping them fully realize their vision. Wayne is based in San Francisco, CA.
John Herman
Co-Founder & CEO
With over 20 years of brand-building experience, John Herman has had success building consumer brands from apparel to energy drinks. Most recently, he served as Nutrabolt's President overseeing global sales, marketing, product development and innovation. During this time, C4 experienced incredible growth building from just under $200m of revenue to approaching $800m ultimately culminating in a $3bn valuation and transaction with Keurig Dr. Pepper. C4 led category expansion and growth initially defining the pre-workout space to later expanding into the energy drink category achieving the #4 position in the country.
John lives in Pittsburgh PA with his wife and 6 year-old daughter, Emma. He is inspired by creating iconic brands and believes that trends in lifestyles such as Better For you will only increase as people look to maximize their lives and futures.
John lives in Pittsburgh PA with his wife and 6 year-old daughter, Emma. He is inspired by creating iconic brands and believes that trends in lifestyles such as Better For you will only increase as people look to maximize their lives and futures.
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