Chris Balzer

Director Customer Strategy & Insights @The Wine Group

Chicago, IL, US

Led department responsible for developing analytics that accelerated retail sales strategies at top two global wine manufacturer. Initiatives supported expansion of distribution, successful sell-in of new products, and enhanced promotional effectiveness with retail partners, driving 200 bps growth in market penetration in first six months.Orchestrated transformation of the Customer Insights function through innovative organizational design and talent strategy. Installed strategic roadmap that aligned insights generation with core business objectives, resulting in increased adoption of recommendations and 5 pt improvement in engagement scoresDeveloped Insights assets to drive joint business planning with retail customers. Presented research and recommendations securing buy-in for critical business initiatives and earned Category Captain status at two key retail accounts.Managed data vendor relationships, led new capability onboarding and maximized investment in analytical tools. Empowered Insights team with best-in-class resources to deliver actionable intelligence that drove 10% improvement in points of distribution on priority brands.

Northwestern University

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)