Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) announced five Wholesaler Movers & Shakers to be celebrated at Access LIVE in Las Vegas. These awards are presented to ambitious and driven rising leaders within the wholesaler tier who exhibit integrity and work ethic while making a positive and redefining impact on wholesalers and the beverage alcohol industry at large, the company states.
“These Movers and Shakers are the bright future of the wholesale tier,” said WSWA President and CEO Francis Creighton in a news release. “They’re doing great work for their companies, and creating value for their supplier and retailer partners, so it’s easy for industry professionals to join me in celebrating their accomplishments and future achievements.”
WSWA’s 2024 Wholesaler Movers & Shakers
- Cristina Desmond , Regional Vice President, Central U.S., Breakthru Beverage Group
- Shani Gregory, Purchasing Manager, Shipping, Classique Wines
- Katie Sauer, Vice President and Co-Founder, Momentum Beverage Team
- Phil Sobel, Senior Vice President of Sales, Allied Beverage Group
- Kirk Wolthouse, Vice President, Fedway
“Cristina is incredibly deserving of this distinction as she’s a naturally gifted servant leader who’s wholeheartedly committed to the ongoing growth and development of her team members; inspiring and empowering them to be their best and perform at a high level,” said Julian Burzynski, Chief Operating Officer, Breakthru Beverage Group in a news release. “Cristina consistently brings out the best in those around her while driving growth and outstanding business results, that’s a powerful combination.”
“We are a very small distributor in MO. During the pandemic, Shani did her very BEST to keep products (especially non-domestic) in stock very continuously with the least amount of cost. She is constantly investigating logistics so we can stay as price conscious on the end with margins. I am proud of her every day!” said President & Owner of Classique Wine & Spirits Summer Endraske in the release.
“Katie is an ‘A’ player that I wish my grandfather, Buddy Romano, was able to work with, as he would have been so impressed!” said Michael Klauer, CEO and President, Momentum Beverage, in the release. “Katie defines some of the many attributes we see in some of our best leaders – Leaders Emerge and Great Players Adjust.”
“Phil’s remarkable enthusiasm, brimming optimism, and unparalleled intensity makes him a standout leader,” said Corey Bronstein, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Allied Beverage Group, in the release. “Beyond his professional acumen, Phil’s innate integrity sets him apart as a truly exceptional person. All of us at Allied Beverage Group find it a privilege to work with such a committed individual! Congratulations Phil on this outstanding recognition!”
“Congratulations to Kirk on his very well-deserved recognition as a WSWA Mover & Shaker!” said President of Fedway, John Devin, in the release. “Kirk’s strategic vision and creativity have been instrumental in Fedway’s best in class technical proficiencies, Ecommerce platform and digital marketing capabilities. We are so proud of Kirk’s many accomplishments and privileged to have him as such a huge contributor to the Fedway Family.”
