Women's Advocacy Committee

The MB&WWA Women’s Advocacy Committee was established to promote the vital roles many accomplished women play in the success and operations of the beer and wine distribution industry.

We are proud of the evolution we continue to witness as women advance in their careers and move into leadership positions. The innovative nature of the beer and wine distribution industry fosters astounding growth potential for women in many capacities, including sales, marketing, human resources, finance, and operations.


Whether working in warehouses, merchandising in retail stores, or leading their organizations as CEOs, women are making great strides for their companies, local communities, and the industry as a whole.


Committee members look forward to connecting with State of Michigan legislators at events throughout the year, including our annual Lobby Day & Spring Party, to provide insight into our industry’s contributions, economic impact, and the critical role distributors play in the Three-Tier System for alcohol distribution.

Jenna Podjan

JENNA PODJAN, CHAIR

Sales Manager

Bud Distributing, Inc.

Dowagiac

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Jessica Balder
Joanie O’Sullivan-Butler
Marcia Hune
Megan Iaccino
Jamie Wanty
Heidi Knudsen
Kit Wanty-Lambert
Kristy Linster
Lindsay Smith
Brandi Tribell

Beer and wine distributors have longstanding histories in the communities they serve. There's so much more to their operations than most people realize, including a commitment to giving back.

Brandi Tribell, Senior Vice President of MB&WWA & MBWWA Services, Inc.

Beer and wine distributors are family and locally owned businesses, proudly giving back to our communities and the families that live and work there.

Jenna Podjan, Sales Manager at Bud Distributing, Inc.

Michigan’s beer and wine distributors play a vital role in delivering a wide selection of products to retailers while also giving back to the communities they serve. We support countless local events and charitable organizations, making a positive impact across the state.

Jessica Balder, Finance Manager at Alliance Beverage Distributing

Getting cases of beer and wine onto local shelves takes careful coordination, logistics, and compliance with state and federal regulations. As distributors, we take pride in ensuring a smooth, safe, and efficient process for businesses and consumers alike.

Joanie O'Sullivan-Butler, President & CEO of John P. O'Sullivan Distributing, Inc.

Wholesalers support countless jobs in local communities while ensuring that product is handled safely and responsibly. Our work helps maintain a secure marketplace, protecting consumers from counterfeit products and ensuring quality every step of the way.

Megan Iaccino, Director of Marketing at Great Lakes Wine & Spirits

Michigan’s beer and wine distributors make a significant impact in our communities. We support local organizations and charities, provide great-paying jobs, and foster a workplace culture that values work-life balance.

Jamie Wanty-Keeder, VP Marketing at O & W, Inc.

The beer and wine distribution industry is both fun and complex. Many don’t realize the effort it takes to get products onto store shelves and restaurant menus. We help grow brands—local, regional, and national—while investing in our employees, retailers, and communities to thrive together.

Sarah Ketvirtis, Vice President of Pike Distributors, Inc.

I am proud to be a part of working diligently in support of the Three-Tier System, ensuring the health and prosperity of many families, businesses, and communities throughout Michigan.

Heidi Knudsen, Controller at Ludington Beverage Company, Inc.

Beer and wine distributors are proud to support the growth of local businesses while ensuring consumers have access to a diverse selection of high-quality products.

Kit Wanty-Lambert, President of O & W, Inc.

Distributors play a vital role in the Three-Tier System, helping stabilize prices for consumers and ensuring small, family-owned convenience stores can thrive.

Kristy Linster, Vice President of Floral City Beverage, Inc.

Beer and wine distribution is highly regulated, and distributors play a key role in the Three-Tier System, ensuring consumer safety and fair access for all suppliers—creating a better experience for everyone.

Lindsay Smith, Controller at H. Cox & Son, Inc.

Beer and wine distributors have longstanding histories in the communities they serve. There's so much more to their operations than most people realize, including a commitment to giving back.

Brandi Tribell, Senior Vice President of MB&WWA & MBWWA Services, Inc.

Beer and wine distributors are family and locally owned businesses, proudly giving back to our communities and the families that live and work there.

Jenna Podjan, Sales Manager at Bud Distributing, Inc.

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