Goodbye Isn't Easy. Moving On From WineDirect and Vin65.

Earlier this month I tendered my resignation as President of WineDirect and President of Vin65.

WineDirect (and its subsidiary Vin65) is an incredible company.  The vision of helping wineries sell more wine direct-to-consumer is a vision I strongly believe in.  Where parts of the wine industry are stuck in technology – WineDirect has really pushed the bar.  On the ecommerce side, tools like the carrot engine and action email are helping wineries sell more wine.  On the fulfillment side in hte USA, the technology and bi-coastal fulfillment are creating better consumer experiences. 

At WineDirect, we’ve taken risks and tried a few things that have failed - like same day delivery and selling wine on Facebook – but overall we have done more to sell wine direct-to-consumer than any other company in the wine industry.  Over $700 million in wine sales passed through Vin65's ecommerce engine in 2015 and over 10 million bottles were shipped through our fulfillment centers.  This job is far from over, but I’m very proud of what we’ve accomplished.

WineDirect management is also incredible.  Joe Waechter is a great mentor.  He is well seasoned and has a lifetime of experiences that are amazing to learn from.  I knew Joe from before I sold Vin65 and couldn’t have asked for more in a mentor.  The rest of the executive team at WineDirect is great to work with as well.  I consider them my close friends.  The board at WineDirect have been very accommodating and I appreciate everything they have done for me.  I’m very confident in the direction of the company and it’s awesome for the wine industry.

So why resign if it’s so incredible?  While I’ve been president at WineDirect, it’s been about our team and vision.  I’ve decided to step aside to pursue other interests. 

So what will I be doing?   First and foremost I want to ensure everything transitions smoothly and there are no gaps.  After I leave, I’ll continue as a consultant to the company. 

Personally, there are so many things that I want to do.  Learn another language, explore new technology, travel South America and finish my MBA.  First and foremost is ensuring that the place I started (Vin65) and the company I currently work at and love (WineDirect) are well taken care of. 

Thank you so much for allowing me to be part of the industry.  Also thank you WineDirect and Vin65 as you have been a significant part of my life.  #sellmorewine.