Honey Stinger, a Steamboat, CO-based maker of honey-based nutritional products, has made several hires and promotions within its sales, marketing and grocery departments.
Christian Johnson, former vice president of sales and marketing at GU, joins Honey Stinger as vice president of sales, effective September 12. Johnson spent more than a decade at GU, where he guided the company to its peak sales, with significant expansion of domestic and international business across multiple channels. Johnson also has experience in strategic sales, marketing, product development and product management from his prior roles with Bonk Breaker, Toad & Co., Eastern Mountain Sports and Pur.
“We are thrilled to add Christian to the team to build on our brand’s incredible momentum,” said Bill Gamber, Honey Stinger co-founder and president. “Not only does he bring a wealth of industry knowledge and experience to the company, but he also brings a passion for the outdoors that we share throughout our team.”
“I’m very impressed with the culture and camaraderie of the team at Honey Stinger, which is not only energetic and charismatic, but also grounded in great business values,” said Johnson. “Honey Stinger is a leader in the sports nutrition space, with an exceptional range of high quality, natural and great-tasting performance food that meets the increasing demands of athletes. Their continued growth in specialty sports and natural grocers demonstrates a tremendous opportunity.”
J.D. Robinson transitioned to national grocery category manager from his previous role as Western key account representative for the grocery division. Robinson has been instrumental in growing the grocery business for Honey Stinger during the past three years, and will now oversee Honey Stinger’s nationwide distribution in the category.
Roxanne Gerstell has been promoted to the newly created position of international sales manager. An avid runner, Gerstell is constantly product testing while training for her next marathon.
Lene Dennis will also transition roles within the sales team as the independent run and triathlon specialty sales representative.
Sara Tlamka has been promoted to the newly created role of marketing manager. Tlamka will oversee daily marketing activities, working closely with the marketing staff and other departments to grow sales, build brand awareness and support the sales team.
Rounding out the new hires and transitions are Greg Medinilla and Andy Comeau, who recently joined the sales team as California and Colorado field representatives, respectively.
