Raise a Glass! Swiftly’s Head of BevAlc Named 2024 Woman of Influence in the Food Industry

We have a winner!

Swiftly is thrilled to announce that our very own Emma Versaw, Head of BevAlc, has been honored as a "Woman of Influence in the Food Industry" for 2024 by the Shelby-Griffin Report. This prestigious award recognizes women in the industry who demonstrate incredible dedication, leadership and creativity. This year's honorees, including Emma, are celebrated for their resilience and ability to drive positive change through their work. The award highlights individuals who are not just helping their companies succeed but are also pivotal in shaping the future of the food industry.

Emma’s unique blend of boundless energy and forward-thinking mindset truly embodies what it means to lead with both compassion and sharp insight. In the bustling world of retail marketing, making a mark takes more than just skill; it requires a genuine passion and relentless effort. Her recognition goes beyond a mere personal achievement; it's a clear reflection of her significant and ongoing impact on the entire industry, a testament to her individuality and unique contributions.

So, how did she get here?

As a graduate of the College of Charleston—where she earned a BS in Hospitality and Tourism Management and Business Administration—Emma quickly made her mark on the industry. Her career gained momentum as she took on significant leadership roles early on. Her insightful and strategic approach to the industry has sparked remarkable revenue increases and inspired innovative digital rebate solutions. Throughout her career, Emma has consistently empowered her teams to surpass their goals and broaden their operational capabilities, setting a high standard within the industry.

Building on this success, Emma transitioned to a pivotal leadership role at Swiftly. Since stepping into her current position as the Head of BevAlc just over a year ago, she has been making waves. Her arrival had a swift and profound impact, highlighted by her launch of an innovative Alcohol Cashback Program that not only set new industry standards for rebate schemes but also showcased her flair for transformative initiatives.

Emma’s deep understanding of the complex regulatory landscape, especially tied-house laws and state regulations has been invaluable. Her expertise helped her navigate her clients through potential legal challenges and guided the strategic development of new products tailored to meet specific industry needs.

This knack for tackling tough regulations and driving innovation played a big part in her swift rise in the industry. Impressively, she reached a VP-level position before turning 30, leading the Alcohol Cashback sales team at Swiftly. This showcased her remarkable capabilities and expanded her influence within and throughout the broader industry.

Emma’s story is much more than a tale of business success; it is a compelling reminder that true passion and a commitment to innovation can create a legacy of influence and inspiration. Her journey is a call to action for all of us to push boundaries, think creatively and lead with vision and heart. This sets a powerful example for future leaders, especially young women aiming to make their mark in the food and beverage industry.

Congratulations, Emma… we’re so proud to have you as part of the Swiftly family.

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