Distilled Spirits Industry Veteran Enlisted to Lead Next Chapter of Growth
Chicago, Ill. (September 10, 2024) – INSÓLITO Tequila, a super-premium, confirmed additive free brand, has appointed Shawn Thurman as Chief Growth Officer. Thurman will focus on strengthening distributor relationships, expanding chain businesses, and mentoring sales teams. He will also be part of the leadership team, reporting to Founder and CEO Pete Kelly.
A distilled spirits veteran with 45 years of industry experience, Thurman brings a wealth of expertise that will significantly strengthen INSÓLITO’s strategic direction and operational leadership. Starting his journey with Gallo Wine and Seagram’s Distillers, Shawn went on to spend 40 years in critical leadership roles at Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. His trajectory saw him rise from State General Manager roles to becoming the National Executive Vice President of Sales, and ultimately guiding the company through its transformative merger in 2016 as Executive Vice President of National Accounts. His deep understanding of both the on-and-off-premise landscape and his extensive relationships within the industry are unparalleled. After retiring from Southern Glazer’s in December 2023, Shawn assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer at WES Brands, leading the company through a critical growth phase before again retiring in August 2024.
“With his deep industry knowledge and leadership experience, we are incredibly fortunate to have Shawn on board, bringing his visionary approach and keen insight to our team,” said Kelly. “Since launching in 2020, INSÓLITO has emerged as an industry favorite among tequila lovers and experts alike. With Shawn’s support, we’re ready to embark on an exciting new chapter and together take the brand to the next level.”
Available in Blanco ($39.99), Reposado ($49.99), Añejo ($59.99), and Extra Añejo ($149.99) INSÓLITO tequila has a finish at 80 proof (40% ABV), and delivers smooth, approachable, sipping tequilas. Each remarkable expression offers varying body and flavor profiles to compliment the freshest cocktail ingredients. All expressions are available for purchase online at www.insolitotequila.com and in the following U.S. markets: AK, AR, AZ, CA, CO, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NM, ND, NV, NY, OK, SC, SD, TN, TX, WA, WI, as well as Australia and South Africa. For more information, visit www.insolitotequila.com or contact [email protected]. Please follow INSÓLITO on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest @INSÓLITO
About INSÓLITO Tequila
INSÓLITO, which translates to rare, uncommon, and extraordinary, is a confirmed additive free, super-premium tequila made from 100% blue agave at NOM 1558 by Master Distiller Alberto Herrera. It’s produced at one of the highest distilleries in Mexico, 7,200 feet above sea level, in the town of Mazamitla, Mexico, which produces a flavor second to none. The company’s product line includes four expressions: Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, and Extra Añejo. The brand is a collaboration among brothers Octavio & Alberto Herrera; Midland, high-style country band; and Spirits Innovation Partners (SIP).
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