Empire Distributors Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Empire Distributors has 4 executives leading key functions including finance, operations, and regional leadership.

Driven by a commitment to excellence, Empire Distributors is dedicated to providing comprehensive beverage distribution services across the Southeast, fostering strong partnerships, and ensuring efficient market reach.

Leadership Roles at Empire Distributors

  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - James Schwarzkopf
  • Vice President, Chief Operating Officer - Gary Wolfe
  • President, EDI GA - Brian Graeser
  • President, Tennessee - Patrick Stephenson
  • James Schwarzkopf - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    James Schwarzkopf, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Empire Distributors, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Overseeing accounting, budgeting, and financial planning, Schwarzkopf ensures robust fiscal health and drives profitability across the organization. This leadership role involves managing capital allocation, optimizing financial performance, and securing the company's long-term economic stability. By analyzing market trends and financial data, James Schwarzkopf guides strategic investments and operational efficiencies. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to risk management and compliance, safeguarding company assets and ensuring adherence to regulatory standards. This critical function supports the company's expansion within Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee.

    Gary Wolfe - Vice President, Chief Operating Officer

    Gary Wolfe, the Vice President, Chief Operating Officer at Empire Distributors, orchestrates daily operational activities and drives efficiency across the distribution network. Overseeing logistics, warehousing, and supply chain management, Wolfe ensures seamless product flow and timely delivery to customers throughout Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. This executive position involves optimizing operational processes, implementing best practices, and enhancing service levels. By focusing on operational excellence, Gary Wolfe directly impacts the company's ability to meet market demands and maintain a competitive edge. The Vice President, Chief Operating Officer's strategic initiatives aim to streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve overall productivity. Wolfe's leadership ensures the effective execution of distribution strategies.
    Gary Wolfe

    Brian Graeser - President, EDI GA

    Brian Graeser, the President, EDI GA at Empire Distributors, spearheads all operations and strategic initiatives within the Georgia market. Graeser directs sales, distribution, and customer relations, ensuring Empire Distributors maintains a dominant presence and achieves its growth objectives in Georgia. This leadership role involves fostering strong relationships with suppliers and clients, driving market share expansion, and overseeing the regional team's performance. By focusing on local market dynamics, Brian Graeser ensures tailored strategies that resonate with Georgia's consumer base. The President, EDI GA's responsibilities include managing the regional P&L, optimizing sales channels, and enhancing operational efficiency specific to Georgia. Graeser's leadership is pivotal to the company's success in this key territory.

    Patrick Stephenson - President, Tennessee

    Patrick Stephenson, the President, Tennessee at Empire Distributors, leads all facets of the company's operations within the Tennessee market. Stephenson directs sales strategies, distribution logistics, and customer engagement, ensuring Empire Distributors effectively serves its Tennessee client base and achieves regional growth targets. This executive position involves cultivating key partnerships, driving revenue generation, and managing the regional operational framework. By concentrating on Tennessee's unique market landscape, Patrick Stephenson implements targeted approaches to maximize market penetration and customer satisfaction. The President, Tennessee's oversight includes financial performance, operational effectiveness, and team development within the state. Stephenson's strategic direction is crucial for solidifying Empire Distributors' position in Tennessee.
    Patrick Stephenson

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Empire Distributors Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Empire Distributors?
    Empire Distributors is led by James Schwarzkopf (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Gary Wolfe (Vice President, Chief Operating Officer) and Brian Graeser (President, EDI GA).
    Who is part of Empire Distributors’s executive team?
    The executive team of Empire Distributors includes leaders such as James Schwarzkopf (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Gary Wolfe (Vice President, Chief Operating Officer), Brian Graeser (President, EDI GA) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Empire Distributors have?
    Empire Distributors has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Empire Distributors’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Empire Distributors includes roles such as Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, President, EDI GA, President, Tennessee.