Breakthru Beverage Group, a leading North American total beverage alcohol distributor with operations across the United States and Canada, today announced the Board of Managers has appointed Tom Bené as President and CEO, effective October 4, 2021.
Most recently, Tom was President/CEO of the National Restaurant Association. Previously, he served as Chairman, President and CEO of Sysco Corporation, the global leader in foodservice distribution. Before that, he was president of PepsiCo’s foodservice business.
While leading Sysco, Tom oversaw international expansion and numerous acquisitions, primarily of family-owned businesses, adding significant revenue to the top line. During Tom’s tenure, the company grew sales to more than $60B across a variety of countries. Prior to joining Sysco in 2013, Tom spent 23 years at PepsiCo, serving in senior leadership roles
W. Rockwell Wirtz, Co-Chairman of the Board of Managers, stated, “Tom brings invaluable expertise in distribution strategy and supplier and customer partnerships. We are confident that he will advance Breakthru’s position as an industry leader as we implement our growth strategy and continue to transform our business.”
To ensure a smooth transition, President and CEO Greg Baird, who is retiring, will serve as an advisor to the company supporting Tom’s transition through the end of the year.