As Alcohol & Tobacco Tax & Trade Bureau officials notified their staffs this morning of the sudden passing of Administrator John Manfreda, tributes to the long-time public servant poured in.
Chris Swonger, president/ceo, Distilled Spirits Council of the U.S. and Responsibility.org, called Manfreda “a friends and colleague to so many of us in the spirits industry” and said “he will be sorely missed. John exemplified the best in public service and will be remembered as a great steward of TTB. He always had an open door to discuss industry concerns; made customer service a top priority; and implemented the Bureau’s mission with innovative solutions. DISCUS and its members remain grateful for John’s dedication, service and support of our industry over the decades.”
Jim McGreevy, President and CEO, Beer Institute, said he learned of Manfreda’s passing “with deep sadness. John’s service at TTB was remarkable. He was accessible, fair, and I admire his many years of dedication to ensuring TTB enforced the laws with the highest integrity. John achieved what many of us can only aspire: a life of humble leadership. We will miss him, but his legacy will endure.”
Robert P. “Bobby” Koch, president/ceo, Wine Institute, said: “John was a true gentleman and devoted public servant. We will miss him as a friend and effective leader of the respected organization we count on for guidance and help. May God bless John and his family.”
Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America said Manfreda’s leadership, friendship and professionalism has been and will always be valued. His service to the industry and to our great nation was positive, valued and continues to empower a well-regulated marketplace that focuses on the consumer. He will be missed, but never forgotten.”
WSWA President/CEO Michelle Korsmo noted she had “met with Administrator Manfreda just two weeks ago and like all interactions with him, left the meeting thinking how thankful we are for his thoughtful leadership and advocacy for a well-functioning beverage alcohol market. I will always remember his candidness, consideration and good humor. He will be sorely missed, and leaves a legacy that has contributed to the global standard of industry regulation.”
Dawson Hobbs, WSWA senior vp-government affairs, said: “The role Administrator Manfreda played in leading TTB since its creation can’t be overstated. His legacy is a TTB that works with the industry it regulates to achieve its mission, and operates in a clear, efficient and transparent manner. I always enjoyed his warm welcome and genuine smile, and will personally miss working with him. I know TTB employees and other industry members will as well.”