In leading Navigate CPG, Brian provides expert oversight for brands targeting growth in the Costco channel. Brian understands every aspect of what it takes to get from concept to launch to becoming an everyday item in this nuanced space. Brian guides clients every step of the way-- from packaging, pricing, postioning, timing, promotion, evaluation and everything inbetween. He develops and executes winning go-to market strategies that work for the brand and for Costco. Brian works tirelessly to ensure clients are set up for success with scalable infrastructure, manufacturing, and supply chain needs. Brian brings "in the trenches" experience to the vendors he guides which is why he is able to provide precision expertise- as co-founder and former COO for Kinder’s BBQ, Brian played a key roll in its evolution from a local Bay Area neighborhood butcher shop and restaurant to national CPG brand leader in natural and organic BBQ centric foods. This working knowledge is a game-changer for clients.

Vicky brings a unique perspective to the team because she understands the business from both sides of the table-- as a former Costco AVP/ GMM and as a vendor. The common thread that runs through Vicky's career is a deep commitment to bringing “good for you, good for the planet” products to market. Vicky combines years of retail/CPG experience and passion to help companies she believes in find a wider retail audience. Vicky spent the majority of her career at Costco Wholesale where she worked up the ranks, before leaving to raise her kids and embark on an entrepreneurial journey; however, she has carried the early disciplines learned at Costco in everything she has done since. Vicky has worn a few hats- she co-founded REVA, a premium running apparel brand, started her own retail consulting firm, Better World B2B, where she worked primarily with organic and socially driven CPG clients, and did a brief stint in the fast food space, opening the first several locations of The Organic Coup, America’s first certified organic fast food.

Tom is our Albertsons wizard. Tom cut his teeth as a grocery executive with nearly 40 years spent on marketing, procurement, and merchandising of all perishable categories at Kroger, Kings Super Market, and Safeway as a VP. He is credited with leading the meat and seafood industry in category development, creating product standards and partnering with manufacturers to drive sales and profits.

Katie is a goal oriented professional with over 12 years experience in marketing, merchandising, project management and retail store execution. As go-to member of Safeway’s Category Meat department, Katie effectively managed company wide sales and profit for a $250 million category where she designed promotional programs that grew sales 5.6%.
Previously, as Coordinator of Luxury Suites for the Golden State Warriors she managed all arena events at the Luxury Suite Level including all Suite Holders. Moving to the wine world Katie held a facet of roles including Sales and Marketing Manager and Director of Social Media where she grew wine club membership 30%.

Luigi is a meat industry icon with a big presence and genuine passion for helping brands succeed. He brings 40 years of invaluable retail experience to the Navigate team where he works with Safeway/Albertsons and Costco. Luigi began his career as a youth working in his father's butcher shop where he learned the in and outs of the business- cutting meats and serving customers. He parlayed those skills into increased responsibilities at Fry’s Food Stores, moving from Department Meat Manager, to National Meat Supervisor, to Meat, Deli and Bakery Buyer. From there, Luigi joined the Columbus Foods organization where he made a tremendous impact leading the sales division. Under his direction, he tripled sales system-wide across small regional retailers and national chains, effectively making the Columbus brand a household name.

Jeff has an eye for great items. He uses his broad experience in the perishable food categories, across both retail and club channels, to develop winning items and help drive sales growth. As Director of National Accounts at Columbus Foods, Jeff lead sales efforts in the club channel, alternative retail and traditional retail accounts. Within a five-year period, he more than tripled club sales while at the same time doubling the size of alternative retail channel business. Jeff learned the business hands-on from his grandfather and uncles, helping them nights and weekends on the Columbus plant floor. Today, Jeff exudes that same passion and energy helping emerging brands chart their path for growth and create sustainable sales channels.

Susan compliments the team with her in-depth knowledge of Costco Wholesale, and passion for sharing Costco’s unique company philosophy and partnering with vendors to create on-trend, premium products that will thrive at Costco warehouses. Her wide-ranging experience with Costco included roles in marketing, operations, e-commerce and buying. Her Costco buying experience is in multiple categories and multiple regions including Northern California, Northeast, Los Angeles, Western Canada and Costco’s corporate office in Issaquah, WA. This diverse experience gives her a unique big picture company view, as well as a solid understanding of the Costco member.

Monique joins us with 25 years of a diverse blend of sales and business development in all classes of trade but with a focus on Costco Wholesale. Most notable companies include Kraft Foods, Starbucks Coffee company, Cadbury Schweppes and IRI as well as mid-size and emerging brands. She has an extensive specialized perspective having been on the vendor side presenting successful items to Costco for most of her career. She made the transition to being a Costco broker three years ago representing multiple brands in several categories for nine Costco regions. She understands the nuances of the sales process from a brand concept to launch with expertise in the small brand space. She’s responsible for the Northeast, Mid-West and Canada regions based out of the Chicago area.

Eric brings over 12 years of entrepreneurial spirit to Navigate CPG in addition to a strong background in sales management and customer service. Running his own full-time photography business since 2009, Eric has pursued his passion for creativity while providing his clients with friendly service, professional talent, commitment and pride that has led to steady growth in his business year after year. In addition, Eric brings over 10 years of previous experience in sales management, budget planning and program development working in the health and wellness industry. In addition to sales management, Eric is able to develop and manage everything from food photography, package design, pallet displays, and more.