GARDINER — Pine State Trading Co., a leading wholesale beverage distributor, has promoted Garrett Grunewald to the position of president and announced Sarah Stanley has joined the company as executive director of finance.
Grunewald previously served as the company’s chief financial officer. He will report to co-owner Nick Alberding, who will remain CEO and chairman of the board, according to a news release from the company.
Garrett Grunewald Submitted photo
“Gary has played a key role in our family-owned business’s growth and success since he started in 2015,” said Alberding. “Gary’s business acumen, people skills, leadership, and passion for the beverage industry make him the ideal choice for president. With this promotion, we are confident that Pine State will continue to thrive for years to come.”
“Gary is a trusted and valuable member of our team,” said co-owners Gena and Keith Canning. “Together with Nick, we’ll remain active in the company through this transition, always mindful of our grandfather Charlie Canning Sr.’s vision when he founded the company 82 years ago.”
In his new role as president, Grunewald will lead Pine State’s overall strategic direction, including driving growth, managing operations and expanding the company’s product offerings.
As CFO, Grunewald oversaw the company’s financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting. Prior to joining Pine State, Grunewald held various finance and accounting roles. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Boston College and a Master of Business Administration degree from The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to lead a company like Pine State, with its rich and storied history in Maine,” said Grunewald. “I have been fortunate to work with a talented and dedicated team during my tenure here, and I am excited to keep building upon the family’s success.”
Sarah Stanley Oh My Darling Photography
As executive director of finance, Stanley will lead and manage the finance and accounting teams. Prior to joining Pine State, Stanley served as division controller at Precision Cutting Technologies, a division of Alleghany Capital in Saco.
Stanley holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and received a certificate in accounting from the University of Southern Maine, and Master of Science degree in accounting and taxation from Southern New Hampshire University.
“Sarah brings years of experience in helping companies grow profitability,” said Grunewald. “We’re fortunate to have her joining the Pine State team.”
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