Mike Tong
About Mike Tong
Mike Tong serves as the Portfolio Activation Director at Brown-Forman, a position he has held since 2013. With extensive experience in various roles within the company, he oversees brand programs and leads a team focused on local sales and marketing strategies in North America.
Current Role at Brown-Forman
Mike Tong serves as the Portfolio Activation Director at Brown-Forman, a position he has held since 2013. In this role, he is responsible for overseeing the strategic development and execution of local Sales & Marketing Activity planning in the North America Region. He leads a team of six direct reports, including Field Marketing Managers and Territory Portfolio Managers. Tong champions content development and execution of Portfolio programs across various brand groups, sales geographies, and national retail teams.
Previous Positions at Brown-Forman
Mike Tong has held multiple positions at Brown-Forman since joining the company in 1989. His roles have included Chambord Brand Manager for the Americas, Integration Director for Finlandia/Developing Brands, and Director of Local Consumer Marketing. He has also worked as a Sales Manager for the Indiana/Kentucky-Midwest Global Spirits Division and as an Area Manager for the Indiana-Midwest Spirits Division. His extensive experience spans over two decades, contributing to various aspects of brand management and marketing.
Education and Expertise
Mike Tong holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Indiana Wesleyan University. He also earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) from the University of Louisville, where he studied Business Administration and Management. His educational background supports his expertise in strategic marketing and brand management within the spirits industry.
Leadership and Team Management
In his current role, Mike Tong oversees the Brand Champion and Brand Ambassador programs at Brown-Forman, which involve more than 100 individuals across the United States. He ensures that regional and brand strategies are effectively implemented in local plans and facilitates feedback from the sales organization to the brand team. His leadership focuses on aligning marketing efforts with business objectives and enhancing brand presence in the market.
Career Timeline at Brown-Forman
Mike Tong's career at Brown-Forman spans several key positions over more than three decades. He began as an Account Manager/Merchandising Representative in 1989 and has progressed through various roles, including Mississippi Spirits State Manager and Jack Daniel’s Brand Business Manager. His tenure includes significant positions such as Integration Director for both Vodkas/Chambord and Finlandia/Developing Brands, showcasing his long-standing commitment to the company.