July 15, 2025 (Healdsburg, CA) — Rodney Strong Wine Estates (RSWE) is proud to announce the promotion of Heather Hanks to Senior Director of Global Sales. In this new role, Hanks will lead the development and execution of a strategic vision for the company’s international sales operations, supporting global growth and strengthening partnerships in key markets.
Hanks has been an integral part of the Rodney Strong team for 19 years, consistently demonstrating exceptional leadership, commitment, and results. Her promotion reflects her deep understanding of the wine market and a proven track record of delivering robust performance across diverse international and domestic markets.
During her tenure as Regional Manager in the Mid-South, Hanks was also responsible for developing existing businesses in the Caribbean and Central America and working closely with our export partners. Hanks is bi-lingual, speaking fluent Spanish, and she was recognized as Sales Manager of the Year, a testament to her ability to lead teams and exceed goals.
Most recently, as a key member of the National Account On-Premise team, Hanks has driven consistent growth, particularly within the hotel channel, which now represents over 30% of total National Account sales. In her new global role, she will continue to work closely with both domestic and international partners, and expand our luxury hotel business, ensuring strong collaboration and strategic alignment across all markets.
“Heather has made a lasting impact on our business through her strategic thinking and relationship-driven approach,” said Rodney Strong Wine Estates Senior Vice President of Global Sales & Marketing Anthony Capobianco. “Her promotion underscores our confidence in her ability to guide and grow our international sales strategy in today’s competitive marketplace.”
As Senior Director of Global Sales, Hanks will report to Rodney Strong Wine Estates Vice President of Global Customer Success Dan Wildermuth, and she will oversee international sales operations, expand distribution channels, and strengthen Rodney Strong’s global presence through innovative, results-oriented leadership.
About Rodney Strong Wine Estates
Rodney Strong Wine Estates (RSWE) is a family-owned wine company that includes Rodney Strong Vineyards, Davis Bynum Wines, and ROWEN Wine Company. RSWE sustainably farms 12 estate vineyards across almost 1,200 acres and produces wines from Sonoma County’s finest appellations, including the Russian River Valley and Alexander Valley appellations. The winery was founded in 1959 by Sonoma County pioneer Rod Strong as the 13th bonded winery in the county. For over 30 years, RSWE has flourished under the leadership of the Klein family, 4th generation California farmers. The Klein family is committed to protecting and preserving the environment in both the vineyards and at the winery through sustainable and innovative practices. RSWE is a family of passionate people committed to crafting premium wines, meaningful experiences, and sustainable leadership in Sonoma County. Learn more at RodneyStrong.com.
