Protis Global Appoints SVP of Business Development
November 20, 2024 – Protis Global has expanded with the addition of Brian Smith as senior vice president of business development leading the adult beverage team. “We are excited to welcome Brian to our team,” said Bert Miller, chairman and CEO at Protis Global. “His unique blend of industry knowledge and commitment to building relationships will be instrumental in driving success for our clients and making a positive impact in our clients’ and candidates’ lives and businesses.”
“Known for his people-first leadership style, Brian is passionate about recruitment and the connections between individuals and businesses,” the search firm said. “He approaches every interaction with the goal of making a positive impact, ensuring meaningful success for both clients and candidates. At Protis Global, Brian will enhance recruitment strategies to help clients achieve transformational growth and purpose-driven success.”
Mr. Smith has extensive experience in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry. Most recently, he served as chief commercial officer at Drink Cool Cat. In this role, Mr. Smith oversaw the commercial strategy and development of a start-up company according to company goals and objectives. Led and directed and directed a team of eight sales directors and marketing representatives to expand market reach and deliver results from the companies’ primary brand, Cool Cat – a Wine based Spritzer. Before that, Mr. Smith was chief sales officer with Canteen Spirits. Prior to this, he was chief sales officer with Pabst Brewing Co. During his career, Mr. Smith also held key roles at iconic brands such as Red Bull, Mike’s Hard Lemonade, Coors Brewing Company, and Nabisco.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Mr. Smith is dedicated to community engagement, serving on the board of Beat the Streets Chicago, where he empowers young people through mentorship. He also shares his expertise as a guest lecturer at the Dedman School of Hospitality.
Related: Protis Global Adds Focus on Women to Board Practice
Protis Global, founded in 1995, is headquartered in Delray Beach, FL. Its specialties include consumer package goods, global food and beverage, cannabis, hospitality, fast moving consumer goods, adult beverage, talent attraction, and employer branding.
Recent Growth
Earlier this year, Protis Global added Samantha Marino Parker as vice president of business development for food and beverage, and Cliff Hall as vice president of business development for automation and robotics. With over 25 years in the CPG industry, Ms. Parker brings extensive expertise in Sales, Marketing, and Category Management for the likes of Fratelli Beretta USA Inc., Sabra Dipping Company, and The Clorox Company. “Her passion for talent development and building strong partnerships aligns with Protis Global’s core values,” the search firm said.
Mr. Hall joins Protis Global with a decade of recruiting experience, honing skills in account management and business development at Korn Ferry and Kelly Services. “With almost two decades in consumer goods and food service, including roles at Coca-Cola Enterprises, Aramark, and Sodexo, Cliff brings a unique perspective to CPG talent matching,” the search firm said.
“Samantha and Cliff bring invaluable experience fitting within the Protis Global framework nicely,” said Mr. Miller. “Their appointments underscore our commitment to providing transformational talent and expertise to the CPG industry.”
Related: Protis Global Adds HR Veteran to Staff
Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief and Dale M. Zupsansky, Executive Editor – Hunt Scanlon Media
