Tom Bené
About Tom Bené
Tom Bené is the President and CEO of Breakthru Beverage Group, a position he has held since 2021. He has extensive experience in the food and beverage industry, having held leadership roles at companies such as Sysco, PepsiCo, and Baxter International Inc.
Current Role at Breakthru Beverage Group
Tom Bené serves as the President & CEO of Breakthru Beverage Group, a position he has held since 2021. In this role, he oversees the strategic direction and operational management of the company, which is a leading distributor of alcoholic beverages in the United States. His leadership is focused on enhancing the company's market presence and driving growth initiatives within the beverage industry.
Previous Experience at Baxter International Inc.
Tom Bené began his career at Baxter International Inc., where he worked as a Sales Representative in the Scientific Products Division from 1984 to 1987 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He later advanced to the role of Regional Sales Manager in the same division from 1987 to 1989 in Dallas, Texas. His experience at Baxter laid the foundation for his career in sales and management within the healthcare and foodservice sectors.
Leadership Roles at Sysco
Bené held multiple leadership positions at Sysco, including EVP & President of Foodservice Operations in 2015, and later as Chairman, President, and CEO from 2018 to 2020. He also served as President & Chief Operating Officer from 2016 to 2017. His tenure at Sysco involved overseeing significant operational strategies and initiatives that contributed to the company's growth in the foodservice industry.
Experience at PepsiCo
Tom Bené worked at PepsiCo in several key roles. He served as SVP of Sales and Franchise Development for Pepsi-Cola North America from 2006 to 2009, and later as President of Foodservice from 2010 to 2013. He also held the position of President for Pepsi-Cola North America Beverages from 2009 to 2010. His roles at PepsiCo involved strategic sales management and franchise development, enhancing the company's market reach.
Education and Board Memberships
Tom Bené earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from The University of Kansas, where he studied from 1980 to 1984. He actively contributes to the business community as a member of the Dean’s Advisory Board at the University of Kansas business school. Additionally, he serves on the Board of Directors of McCain Foods and is a member of The Business Council.