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Will Atkinson
TN/KY Sales Manager at Riverbend Malt House
Professional Background
Will Atkinson is a dynamic professional with a strong foundation in broadcast journalism and an impressive career trajectory in the beverage industry. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Will has combined his passion for storytelling with his knowledge of sales, brand advocacy, and production management. His career reflects a multifaceted approach, where media and beverage production intersect to create memorable experiences and drive brand loyalty.
As the current TN/KY Sales Manager at Riverbend Malt House, Will plays a vital role in managing sales operations across two states, where he promotes the rich flavors and craftsmanship that Riverbend is known for. His insight into the local market and consumer preferences enables him to cultivate robust relationships with clients and help drive sales growth.
Prior to his role at Riverbend Malt House, Will honed his skills as the Training Manager at Ole Smoky Distillery, LLC, where he was instrumental in developing training programs that educated staff on the distilling process and customer engagement. His exceptional communication skills, combined with his background in journalism, allowed him to articulate complex information in an engaging manner, ensuring that both employees and customers had a rich understanding of the brand.
Additionally, Will has served as an Ambassador for Big Machine Vodka, where he represented the brand at various events, enhancing its visibility and prestige in the competitive spirits market. As a Brand Ambassador at Corsair Artisan Distillery, he engaged with customers and helped develop marketing strategies that resonated with a diverse audience.
With hands-on experience in various roles, including Production Intern at WBIR-TV and Assistant Brewer at New Knoxville Brewing Company, Will has gained a wealth of knowledge that spans both media and brewing production, making him a versatile asset in any role he assumes. His early career experiences as a News Intern at WSMV, On Air Personality at WUTK, and Clerical Reporter at Williamson County Review Appeal have shaped his ability to communicate effectively and present engaging narratives, which he leverages in his current roles.
Education and Achievements
Will Atkinson attended the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Broadcast Journalism. His academic background has provided him with essential skills in writing, media production, and communications, laying a strong foundation for his professional journey.
Throughout his career, Will's achievements include successfully increasing sales at Riverbend Malt House through innovative strategies and client engagement tactics. His role in the training and development at Ole Smoky Distillery exemplifies his commitment to excellence and passion for education within the spirits industry. His diverse experience across several esteemed organizations in the distilling and brewing sectors showcases his adaptability and eagerness to learn.
Key Contributions
- Sales and Relationship Management: As TN/KY Sales Manager, Will excels in building and maintaining relationships with customers, which is essential for enhancing brand loyalty and ensuring repeat business.
- Training and Development: At Ole Smoky Distillery, Will's focus on creating informative training programs not only helped in staff development but also ensured consistent customer experiences.
- Brand Advocacy: As an ambassador for various brands, Will successfully promoted products at events and in the market, raising awareness and facilitating brand growth.
- Communication Skills: With his background in journalism, Will showcases remarkable storytelling abilities, essential for engaging presentations and effective brand messaging.
In summary, Will Atkinson's educational background, combined with his extensive career experiences across multiple reputable organizations in the spirits and media industries, establishes him as a proficient professional dedicated to advancing his field and building impactful connections. His innovative approach and commitment to excellence shine through in every role he takes on, making him a prominent figure in the beverage industry.
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Will Atkinson: Accomplished Sales Manager and Brand Advocate
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