BRYCE MULLINS
General Manager , Halter Ranch
First industry job : Working at Halter Ranch Favorite drink : Glenturret 25-year-old
In 2018 Bryce Mullins became the youngest GM in Halter Ranch ’ s history . The Paso Robles winery has undergone significant transformation and growth under his leadership , including a commitment to sustainability and opening new tasting rooms .
The vineyard and winery operations received USDA organic certification in 2023 , and a new solar field now covers 100 % of the winery ’ s energy needs . The new tasting room in Temecula is already opened , soon to be followed by a $ 10 million facility in Texas next year .
Mullins is also the driving force behind the company ’ s charitable trust , which has donated more than $ 1 million to local charities like the Lumina Alliance benefiting survivors of domestic violence , the SLO Food Bank Coalition and Central Coast Boys & Girls Club .
“ I didn ’ t know anything about the alcohol business , wine or even farming … and didn ’ t drink alcohol before I started in this role ,” Mullins says . “ A lot of self-education was required , and that continues every day .”
EMMA HUTCHENS
Chief Human Resources Officer , Heaven Hill Brands
First industry job : Brown-Forman business analyst Favorite drink : Elijah Craig Old Fashioned
Emma Hutchens ’ first four years at Heaven Hill have coincided with significant employee growth – marked by more than 600 new team members added and the launch of the company ’ s Spirited Commitment operating tenets .
As a member of the executive leadership team , she plays a role in developing Heaven Hill ’ s 5-year strategic plan , which has led to prioritizing “ people capability .” The Spirited Commitment program is a guiding compass , outlining core behaviors and values that form the foundation of company culture . The complementary CHEERS recognition program amplifies teamwork and performance by expressing gratitude for a job well done .
She also played a key role in creating Employee Resource Groups focusing on women , multicultural diversity and pride , fostering diversity and inclusion throughout the company .
Hutchens serves on the Kentucky Governor ’ s Commission on Women , is a founding mentor to Leadership Louisville ’ s Women of Impact Advisory Council and volunteers for several non-profits . Despite her accomplishments , like many of our 40 Under 40 honorees , her biggest challenge is being underestimated .
“ Whether because of my age , being openly gay , or being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry , at each step of my career I ’ ve found that even if I ’ m the technical expert in the room , I must re-prove the value of my ideas and contributions prior to having the maximum impact ,” she says . “ This has taught me incredible resiliency , which serves me in every area of my life .”
ELIZABETH OLAH
Regional Manager , Hokus Pokus Liquors
Elizabeth Olah is among the fourth generation of owners in her family business .
“ She ’ s brought a new perspective and energy of what it means to be a multi-generational retailer ,” says Hokus Pokus President Gus Olah . “ She ’ s constantly striving to keep us relevant in today ’ s highly competitive market dominated by corporate big box stores .”
She ’ s completed her WSET Level 2 certification , utilizing her wine and spirits knowledge to host weekly whiskey , wine and beer tastings for both staff and customers . She also works with each of the company ’ s three store managers to create promotional in-store events .
“ Elizabeth worked for corporate America and saw the value of returning to our family business ,” Gus says . “ She sees the importance of small businesses and the need to carry our family legacy into the future , the importance of treating our employees and customers with respect and she has the vision to carry our industry into the future with her innovative practices and ideas .”
To
read more about Hokus Pokus , check out the September / October 2023 issue of Beverage Dynamics .
8 2023 BEVERAGE INFORMATION GROUP 40 UNDER 40