Heather Schlichter
Cottage Grove
Summary
Results-driven sales professional with extensive experience in building customer partnerships and growing key accounts in Minnesota's on-premise market. Specializes in developing beverage programs, securing menu placements, and executing promotional initiatives to enhance brand visibility and account profitability. Collaborates with diverse venues to drive sales growth through strategic placements and consumer engagement opportunities.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Sales Consultant
Breakthru Beverage
Minneapolis
06.2023 - Current
- Manage and grow a $2M+ annual portfolio of on-premise accounts throughout the Minneapolis market.
- Develop strategic business plans that increase distribution, menu placements, feature activity, and brand visibility across restaurants, bars, hotels, casinos, and entertainment venues.
- Partner with operators to create cocktail programs, seasonal features, and beverage menus that drive both supplier brand growth and account profitability.
- Execute brand education, staff trainings, tastings, and promotional events to increase product awareness and consumer engagement.
- Collaborate closely with supplier partners to achieve depletion goals, expand market share, and identify new business opportunities.
Supervisor/Lead Trainer/Bartender
Crave American Kitchen & Sushi Bar
Edina
07.2014 - 03.2026
- Front-of-house leader supporting operations within a high-volume restaurant generating more than $5M annually
- Trained and mentored servers, bartenders, and support staff on service standards and hospitality excellence, fostering a knowledgeable team.
- Provided wine, spirit, cocktail, and food pairing recommendations that enhanced guest experience and boosted beverage sales.
- Supported operational execution during peak volume service periods, ensuring exceptional guest satisfaction.
Education
Associate of Science - Horticulture/Greenhouse Management
Hennepin Technical College
Minneapolis, MN06-2019
Skills
- WSET Level 2 (Merit)
- Wine & Spirits Portfolio Management
- Beverage Program Strategy
- Staff Training and Development
- Customer relationship management
- Premium Spirits and Wine Knowledge
- Brand Development and Promotion
- Effective communication
Timeline
Sales Consultant
Breakthru Beverage
06.2023 - Current
Supervisor/Lead Trainer/Bartender
Crave American Kitchen & Sushi Bar
07.2014 - 03.2026
Associate of Science - Horticulture/Greenhouse Management
Hennepin Technical College