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March 08, 2021
Women's History Month is an annually declared month (March) that highlights the contributions of women throughout the years to the present time. At Heritage Distilling Co. (HDC) we are proud to be led by a handful of ambitious women throughout the various facets of our growing business.
The spirits industry is notably characterized as being a male-dominated industry. But that isn't to say women aren't blazing the trail and making moves across the board. In fact, many powerful women are steering the ship for other well-known liquor brands as well.
We want to celebrate this month by highlighting several remarkable women behind our brand. Read below for our Women's Month feature and get to know a few fearless females who are tenaciously building HDC to what it is today.
Jennifer Stiefel
President, Heritage Distilling Co.
What is your favorite cocktail?
Jennifer: Old Fashioned with Elk Rider Bourbon, it gives the drink such a great depth of flavor.
In your own opinion, how do you see the spirits industry shifting for women?
Jennifer: As in many industries, women are taking significant leadership roles in the entire adult beverage space. It just so happens that spirits is hitting its stride relative to beer and wine. In the craft spirits space, we have the luxury of creating our roles, and you see a significant number of husband and wife teams, or women business partners, starting and growing tremendous businesses in this realm. It will be exciting to see the growth in women-led spirits businesses over the next ten years. I am honored to be part of that growth.
What advice do you have for women aiming for leadership in their companies?
Jennifer: There are 3 things I focus on. First, great leaders are also life long learners- my advice is to continue to ask questions, provide feedback and not hold back your opinion in the face of obstacles. Second, be prepared, and when opportunity strikes, grab it. Third, develop great team building skills focused on treating people fairly and decently while still holding them accountable.
How has working with other talented women helped you shape your career?
Jennifer: We are fortunate in the quality of employees we attract and retain at HDC. I learn so much from them, and I hope they, in turn, learn something from me. We are constantly challenging each other to find better ways to do things. And for those of us who are moms, we tend to build our days and routines around kids’ schedules. It forces us to be extra efficient with our time while at work. You would be amazed at how much a mom can accomplish every day if she knows she has to be at the bus stop by 3 pm. Don’t get in her way!
What excites you most about working at HDC?
Jennifer: Working with such a talented group of people who are all working towards the same goal, and the creativity that comes from our team.
Shelby Young
Director of Programs, Heritage Distilling Co.
What is your favorite cocktail?
Shelby: Cocktails! I have two favorite cocktails: Whiskey Ginger and a Greyhound - always my go-to's!
What advice do you have for women aiming for leadership in their companies?
Shelby: Believe in yourself. Celebrate your successes and learn from your failures. Both are a guarantee.
How has working with other talented women helped you shape your career?
Shelby: When you are lucky enough to be surrounded by great women, you not only pull energy from them, you also learn a lot. Our women (company wide) lead with integrity, strength and class. They make me want to be a better person and work up to their level every single day.
What excites you most about working at HDC?
Shelby: The thing that excites me the most about working at Heritage Distilling Co. is the growth. Witnessing the company evolve has been an amazing journey to be a part of, for both me AND my family and friends. I receive messages and photos with "look what I see!" notes with bottles found on store shelves, HDC trucks on the freeways, drink selections on menus and radio commercials during daily drives. It's fun to be a small part of that success.
Hannah Hanley
Chief Marketing Officer, Heritage Distilling Co.
What is your favorite cocktail?
Hannah: My favorite cocktail is the Peachy Bourbon Cocktail To-Go.
What advice do you have for women aiming for leadership in their companies?
Hannah: My advice is always to work a lot harder then anyone else around you, volunteer to help and bring solutions forward. I also believe that leaders should always listen to the people around them
How has working with other talented women helped you shape your career?
Hannah: I’ve always worked with extremely talented and professional women. One of the most inspirational aspects has been working with women who balance family and work. Having a family and a career is challenging while at the same time taking time to take care of yourself, spend time with friends and maintain other healthy habits. I don’t think there is such thing as complete balance, but working with other women has taught me that prioritizing time and being efficient is key to success.
What excites you most about working at HDC?
Hannah: HDC is always evolving and growing, no two days are the same and the opportunities to help expand the business are endless. This is a start up and that means there isn’t always a process in place, but it also means that creativity is truly fostered.