Chopin Imports Ltd., the marketing company for Chopin Vodka brand and other best-in-class spirits, has welcomed a new team member and promoted four present team members.
Bryan Tilbury was promoted from western regional division vice president to vice president of sales. In his new role, he will be responsible for all aspects of company business related to sales, including the oversight of Chopin Imports’ sales group and distributor partners; national and regional budgets; and programming and sales goals. Tilbury joined Chopin Imports in 2019 and brings with him nearly 20 years of industry knowledge, and has achieved a Level 1 Certificate from the Master Court of Sommeliers.
“We are delighted to have Bryan advance into the key leadership role of VP of Sales,” said COO Chuck Kane. “[He] is a positive team leader, and I am confident he will continue to expand on our progress for both our supplier partners and team.”
Shawn Hackbarth was hired as the western regional division vice president to fill Tilbury’s former role. Hackbarth brings over 22 years of wine and spirits experience, including all channels on both the distributor and supplier sides of the business. Most recently he served as regional sales manager for the west coast with Third Leaf Wines. In his new role, Hackbarth will lead and oversee the strategic direction of the west region.
“Shawn will be an excellent addition to our team,” said Kane. “We look forward to having him continue to enhance our performance in the west region.”
In addition, several team members received promotions, including Joel Caruso to director of education, Tara Gray to west central regional manager, and Lance Lorang to southwest regional manager.
“Collectively, each person brings great value to the performance of all our family of brands,” remarked Kane. “We set a high bar for what we want to accomplish. I’m proud of what we’ve established and optimistic about our future.”
