NEW ORLEANS – December 20, 2017 – Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) announced today the untimely passing of longtime industry executive and influencer Jim Smith. The entire RNDC workforce and broader trade community grieve the loss of a sincere and principled leader.
“Jim exemplified the best of RNDC, and was known as much for his personal values as his industry knowledge – which is saying a lot. He always had a pulse on the Colorado market, and his industry knowledge was integral to RNDC’s growth and success,” said RNDC Owner Jay Davis. “There are few in this industry who were as well known and liked as Jim. It was a privilege to work with him. He will be sorely missed.”
Over the course of his 40 impactful years in the beverage alcohol industry, Jim has held numerous leadership roles. His career began with National Distributing Company in 1973 as a merchandiser in Tampa, which eventually led to sales executive positions in Sarasota, Tampa and South Florida. In 1990, he relocated to Colorado with his family before returning to Florida a decade later as State President. In 2004, he resumed a state leadership role with RNDC in Colorado before ultimately transitioning to his latest role as Director of Government and Trade Affairs.
Throughout his tenure, Jim created a professional and personal legacy which embodies the values of the RNDC — a culture of family, professionalism and accountability.
Jim leaves behind his wife Patricia and his son Patrick.
About Republic National Distributing Company
RNDC is the second largest distributor of premium wine and spirits in the United States with operations in Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, District of Columbia, Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia. RNDC employs more than 9,500 individuals nationwide. For more information about the company, please visit www.rndc-usa.com.
