St. Julian Winery & Distillery in Paw Paw has promoted two staff members to Vice President positions, according to company President John Braganini. Joel Szakaly now serves as Vice President of Direct-to-Consumer (DTC). At the same time, Matt White steps into the role of Vice President of Operations.
Joel Szakaly joined St. Julian in February 2017 as Regional Retail Manager. In that role, he oversaw four tasting rooms. Since then, the winery has opened two additional locations, all of which fall under his leadership. In addition, Szakaly manages the Wine Club along with online and shipping sales. He counts the 2017 Braganini Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon as his all-time favorite St. Julian wine. Outside of work, Szakaly describes himself as a big sports fan. He and his wife enjoy cheering on their two children at swimming and basketball competitions.
Meanwhile, Matt White brings decades of experience to his new role. He joined St. Julian in 1992, starting at the Paw Paw tasting room. Later, he moved into the warehouse and eventually became Warehouse Manager. Most recently, White served as Director of Operations before earning this promotion. In his new role, he oversees inventory control, purchasing, and scheduling. He also manages the warehouse, private label products, and co-pack customers within the specialty services division. White lives in Paw Paw with his wife and three children. He enjoys coaching soccer, spending time outdoors, and, of course, St. Julian wine.
“Success in any organization depends on having a skilled and talented team,” says John Braganini, President of St. Julian Winery. “Joel and Matt are valuable assets to our company, and I am proud to welcome them as officers and directors.”
Founded in 1921, family-owned St. Julian Winery remains Michigan’s oldest and longest-operating winery. At its downtown Paw Paw location, the winery produces award-winning wines, sparkling juices, spirits, and cider. In addition, St. Julian operates tasting rooms in Dundee, Frankenmuth, Troy, Rockford, and Union Pier, Michigan.
