Altamura Distilleries Vodka has appointed Kevin Schmudde as head of USA as the brand accelerates distribution and commercial growth across the US.

Schmudde brings more than 20 years of beverage alcohol experience, including senior roles with Constellation Brands, Palm Bay International and Brown-Forman, as well as experience as chief executive officer of Kindred Beer. 

In his new role, Schmudde will lead Altamura Distilleries Vodka’s US business and will be responsible for shaping its long-term commercial strategy, strengthening distributor and retail relationships, expanding the brand’s footprint across key states and building a team capable of delivering sustainable national growth.

Schmudde said: “Altamura Distilleries Vodka has everything required to become a major force in the US premium spirits market: a genuinely distinctive liquid, an authentic and ownable Italian story, ambitious founders and a growing reputation among the world’s best bartenders and hospitality leaders. I am excited to join the business at such an important stage and to build the commercial platform, partnerships and team that will turn its early success into lasting national growth.”

He will work closely with Lorenzo Di Cola, head of brand, and co-founder Frank Grillo as the US becomes an increasingly important market within the company’s global growth plans.

Di Cola added: “Kevin’s appointment is a significant moment for Altamura Distilleries and one of the clearest statements yet of our ambition in the United States. He combines deep commercial experience with the leadership, market understanding and entrepreneurial energy needed to take a premium brand from momentum to meaningful national scale.”