Drew Estate announced today that CEO Glenn Wolfson has passed away.
Wolfson joined Drew Estate in 2016 after a 34-year career in management consulting. During his decade leading the company, he oversaw a period of operational growth and helped guide the company through significant changes while maintaining the culture established by founder Jonathan Drew.
The company said its Executive Team will oversee operations until a new CEO is named.
In a statement, Drew Estate’s Executive Team reflected on Wolfson’s leadership and his impact on both the company and the premium cigar industry.
“Glenn loved Drew Estate, its people, its brands, its culture and the broader premium cigar community,” said the Drew Estate Executive Team. “He was a transformational leader, a trusted partner and a deeply valued friend. He challenged all of us to think bigger, lead with discipline, protect what makes Drew Estate special and build this company to last. We are heartbroken by his passing, and we are committed to honoring Glenn through the way we care for one another, serve the trade and continue carrying Drew Estate forward.”
Founder and President Jonathan Drew also shared a personal tribute, recalling Wolfson’s influence on the company and those who worked alongside him.
“In 2016 Glenn Wolfson confidently and passionately planted his roots at Drew Estate … and like a hearty oak tree had a disproportionately large impact on our unique ecosystem, culture, and community.
While Glenn’s talents in business, operations, and general commercial practices drove the company to new heights, his influence as a people person was his separate-amongst-equals … his superpower! Our Drew Estate Wolfy was a natural born leader who instinctively knew how to climb into each of our individual psyches and drive our strengths while mentoring us on how to course-correct our personal weaknesses. Most importantly, he accomplished this with love … really, really deep love.
Like the hearty oak tree, Wolfy ALWAYS gave more than he took, with a longevity focused principle of being built to last. On many occasions, more than I can remember, I would say to him ‘dude, it’s been months since you’ve taken a day off, you need to take a break.’ His response was always the same … that the person needed him for the meeting, the workshop, the counseling, the reporting … the whatever. If you’re reading this right now, there’s a good chance that on various occasions this person was you … from our US and Nica staff to our retailers, distributors, suppliers, and even our competitors. Glenn left nothing on the field of life.
A mature oak tree does far more than simply occupy space … it creates and supports a community of life, shapes entire ecosystems and influences evolution with impacts that often last for centuries. Soil, water, climate … everything … Wolfy, we will miss you profoundly.”
No additional information regarding funeral arrangements or the company’s search for a permanent CEO has been announced.
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