
Team
-
JOHN PALATELLA
President & CEO
‘JP’ is a seasoned professional with over 35 years of expertise in the beverage alcohol industry. His proven track record extends to optimizing underperforming operations, expertly managing budgets, and implementing innovative go-to-market strategies that build customer loyalty and deliver exceptional bottom-line results. During his career, John has held numerous Executive Leadership and C Suite roles in both the Distribution and Supplier tiers including Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits, Sidney Frank Import Company, Russian Standard, Cinco Spirits Group and The Patron Spirits Company. He has been enormously influential in the development and success of many of today’s most iconic and recognizable brands.
-
DAVE RAMIREZ
Chief Commercial Officer
Dave is a seasoned Sales and Marketing leader with over 35 years of experience in the adult beverage industry. He has held roles from Sales Rep to Vice President of Sales, successfully leading teams, building national account infrastructures, and managing strategic budgets. Dave excels in route-to-market strategy, distributor management, and budget forecasting. He has a proven track record of building high-performing teams and mentoring sales professionals. His work with brands like Crown Royal, Chivas Regal, Absolut Vodka, Jim Beam, Patron Tequila, and Aviation Gin has earned him industry recognition. Dave resides in Las Vegas, Nevada.
-
ANTHONY PALATELLA
VP, Finance
Anthony Palatella is a seasoned finance professional with extensive experience in financial strategy, operations, and leadership. He holds advanced degrees in Finance and an MBA from Southern Methodist University. Anthony’s career includes impactful roles at Mark Cuban Companies, where he focused on identifying and evaluating successful investment opportunities. With a strong track record of optimizing financial performance and leading cross- functional teams, Anthony brings analytical rigor and strategic insight to his role as Vice President of Finance.
-
ANDY GERGEL
VP, Northeast Region
Andy brings over 30 years of experience in the bev alc and hospitality industries. Growing up in Long Island and New York City, he developed a passion for the culinary and hospitality sectors, working in both front- and back-of-house roles before gaining invaluable insights as an owner. Andy transitioned into the bev alc industry as a merchandiser and sales consultant with Kronheim Company (later RNDC.) He then joined Southern Wine & Spirits’ Greenfeld Expansion Team in NYC, eventually rising to roles including General Sales Manager, VP, and General Manager. Driven by innovation, Andy co-founded a successful direct-to- consumer platform in the beverage alcohol space. Outside of work, he is an active member of the canine community, training his German Shepherd.
-
TIM SULLIVAN
VP, Southeast Region
With over 25 years in the wine and spirits industry, Tim is a seasoned leader known for his strategic vision and impact. As Vice President of Portfolio Management at Breakthru Beverage Florida, he managed a portfolio of 300+ suppliers and led a team to drive 13% revenue growth, reaching $1.5 billion in 2023. Tim also led the Alliance Division (Bacardi/Brown Forman), managed South Florida Sales and helped establish the national Corporate Supplier Business Manager role. Previously, he held key roles at Moët Hennessy USA overseeing sales operations in New York and Florida. Tim excels in portfolio management, sales strategy, and brand positioning, shaping the industry's future.
-
LARRY ROMER
Strategic Advisor
Larry is a seasoned veteran with over 40 years in the beverage industry. He began his career at the Coca- Cola Bottling Company, before transitioning into alcoholic beverages. Larry held senior leadership roles as Regional Vice President for both Paddington Corporation and Jim Beam Brands, overseeing regions across the U.S. and Canada. He later joined Southern Wine & Spirits as Vice President and General Manager for Spirits, eventually rising to Senior Vice President and GM of the Sapphire Division, managing both spirits and wine. After retiring, Larry took on the role of CEO at Iconic Brands, where he managed the company's wine portfolio and oversaw ToPPop Packing Company.