Kretek International Inc. has announced a number of employee promotions within its sales leadership team.
Patrick Hurd
Kretek International Inc. is experiencing strong growth through its differentiated, value-added portfolio, coupled with leveraging its fact-based selling approach to business management. It is strengthening its sales team to provide strategic, focused leadership and executive vision to unite Kretek brands and subsidiaries for continued growth in all channels.
Newly promoted to chief sales officer (CSO) of Kretek International Inc., Patrick Hurd will lead the long-term direction and health of the overall business for both Kretek US, and Kretek International Inc.’s subsidiaries. The almost 20-year Kretek veteran brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record for aligning products and goals, teams and strategies from his previous positions at the company, which include general manager for Kretek Canada, general manager for Ventura Cigar Co. and most recently, vice president of sales for Kretek US.
John Tirpak
“I’m honored to be such an integral part of the Kretek team and legacy,” said Hurd. “This company has a long history of success and continues to pave the way within our ever-evolving industry. I look forward to driving new business, innovations, partnerships, and efficiencies that will keep Kretek at the top of its game. There’s real opportunity here, and we’re going after it.”
John Tirpak will assume the title of vice president of sales of Kretek International, Inc. Having worked within the Premium Cigar industry for over 23 years, Tirpak most recently held the title director of sales at Kretek International Inc., and prior to that, director of sales for Ventura Cigar Co., a Kretek subsidiary. His experience with the company and within the industry brings an expert, focused leadership that will drive Kretek toward its overarching goals. As vice president of sales, Tirpak will be instrumental to Kretek’s growth, focusing on delivering sales targets and providing continued direction within the Sales Team.
Sean Teninty
Sean Teninty has been promoted to vice president of sales strategy from his previous position as senior director of sales strategy at Kretek International Inc. He has been with Kretek for over five years, helping to transform Kretek’s business analytics and business planning, and creating channel-specific strategies. Prior to joining Kretek, he spent over 20 years in the consumer packaged goods industry in various sales leadership positions at well-known companies like Quaker Oats, Pepsico, Del Monte and Pharmavite. In his new position, Teninty will be responsible for developing Kretek’s business strategies. He will continue to lead trade marketing and business analytics, and oversee the retail sales operations team.
“We are excited for what these appointments mean for the future of Kretek,” said Mark Cassar, CEO of Kretek International Inc. “We’ve put together a team that offers a well-rounded perspective of our business, and a strong understanding of our customers. We are investing in our people, our products, and our processes, which will position Kretek for continued success in today’s ultra-competitive marketplace.”
The changes to Kretek International Inc.’s Sales Leadership Team are effective immediately. Kretek is the largest importer, marketer and distributor of specialty tobacco products in the U.S.
