Tom Cortez

Tom Cortez recognized the potential of a “better for you” adult beverage category in late 2019, as consumer behavior around a mindful lifestyle began to expand internationally. As founder and managing partner, he is the visionary behind the company’s direction and operating structure, and the original architect of the team, bringing together an incomparable group of managing partners to drive growth for brands, retailers, and distributor partners alike. 

Tom is currently responsible for the front end of the Emergent Beverages business. He sets the company’s path-to-market strategies, defines goals for revenue growth, and oversees everything from projections and forecasts, to pricing architecture, marketing, programming. He’s also closely involved in distributor and retailer partnerships, and, most importantly, in relationships with the incredible brands Emergent serves.

Tom’s 34-year career in the beverage industry has included management roles with Gallo Sales Company, Young’s Market Company, CK Mondavi, Pasternak Wine Imports, and Heineken USA’s West Coast Executive Management Team.  He has managed 2,400 locations as the Safeway National Account Manager and was Category Captain for 200 Albertsons store locations.

Tom is currently on the Executive Board of the Texas Hemp Coalition and has served as an advisory board member with the City of Hope and Easter Seals nonprofit organizations. He and his wife, Lisa, currently reside in The Woodlands, Texas, where they enjoy any opportunity to welcome both of their post-collegiate sons for return visits.