Chuck Purrington

Chuck Purrington has a diverse work experience in the beverage industry. Chuck started their most recent position in 2021 as the Western Region Sales Manager for Drake's Organic Spirits Inc. In this role, they are responsible for managing the sales and distribution in California, Arizona, and New Mexico. Additionally, they worked as the Southern California Territory Manager for the same company, where they focused on building brand awareness and increasing accounts sold in Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego Counties.

Prior to their role at Drake's Organic Spirits Inc, Chuck worked at Ste. Michelle Wine Estates from 2009 to 2020. Chuck served as the Senior Key Account Manager and Southern California Team Leader, representing all brands of Ste. Michelle Wine Estates and Import partners. Chuck managed thirteen distributor sales teams and played a key role in driving growth and increasing accounts sold.

Before joining Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, Chuck spent a significant portion of their career at Southern Wine & Spirits of California. From 1992 to 2009, they held various roles within the company, including Wine Manager and On Premise Sales Representative & Wine Manager. As the Wine Manager, they managed a wine portfolio and successfully achieved quota and distribution goals. Chuck also received recognition as the Wine Manager of the Year in 2009.

Overall, Chuck Purrington has a strong background in sales and management within the beverage industry, with a focus on driving growth, building brand awareness, and increasing accounts sold.

Chuck Purrington's education history includes various certifications and degrees in the field of culinary arts and wine. In 1979, they attended Cypress College School of Culinary Arts & Hospitality Management and received a Certificate in Culinary Arts/Chef Training, which they completed in 1983. In 2008, Chuck obtained the title of Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) from the Society of Wine Educators and also completed Level 1 Sommelier training from the Court of Master Sommeliers. Chuck further expanded their expertise in wine by studying at the Wine & Spirit Education Trust and achieving WSET II certification in 2018. Additionally, Chuck has obtained several other certifications such as "Following Up after a Sales Meeting" from LinkedIn in January 2021 and "Leading without Formal Authority" from LinkedIn in July 2019. Overall, Chuck Purrington has a strong educational background in the culinary arts and wine industry.