Ron Mertz

Ron Mertz currently serves as the Senior Vice President of Commercial Strategy at O'Neill Vintners & Distillers, a position held since August 2024. Prior to this, Ron was the Executive Vice President of Sales at HOUSE OF SMITH, where responsibilities included creating route-to-market strategies for the brand. Mertz's extensive experience spans several leadership roles, including President of Sales at A to Z Wineworks, where Ron managed sales organization development and growth strategy, and President of US Operations at Villa Maria Estate. Other significant positions include leading Lion Nathan USA as President and founding Cumulus Wines Incorporated, where Ron built a national sales and marketing organization. Mertz's career began at Johnson Brothers Liquor Co., covering roles from Account Representative to General Sales Manager. Educational qualifications include an MBA from Rockhurst University and a BA in Speech Communications and Psychology from the University of Minnesota.