Importer of Heineken Lager, Amstel Light, Newcastle Brown Ale, Dos Equis and other brands.
Professional Path: B.A., Boston University; M.S., Leadership and Business Ethics, Duquesne University. Retired U.S. Army Reserve Captain. Joined Heineken USA in 1995 after working in corporate and government affairs with other brewing companies.
Why Westchester: Benefits range from “a very good quality of life, great public and private schools and a fine labor force” to “transportation systems and proximity to New York City and their professional services community, and to other major East Coast markets.”
Most Valuable Resources: The Business Council of Westchester is a “powerful and effective voice” with exceptional networking opportunities. The Industrial Development Agency (IDA) provides “effective economic incentives for businesses.”
Lessons Learned: “Engaging and developing relationships with political and community leaders is critical in developing and maintaining a positive reputation for your company in order to maintain your company’s freedom to operate, especially if it’s in a heavily regulated industry.”
Secret to Success: Heineken USA has established itself as a “good and enlightened corporate citizen,” working with law enforcement and a myriad of community service organizations. Commercially, a pivotal moment occurred in 2005 when Heineken USA took on the beer brands from FEMSA Cerveza, Mexico’s second largest brewer. “These outstanding brands have become nearly one-third of our overall business and given us a much more balanced national presence.”
Rewarding Moment: New York Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee award for programs to reduce underage drinking and illegal sales to minors. Westchester County Business Ethics award from the Society of Financial Services Professionals. Development of the Heineken With a Heart, Days of Giving and Heineken Heroes programs.
What’s Next: “Continue to enhance the reputation and consequently the value of the company as a good corporate citizen (and) the leading upscale beer company in the U.S.”
