Porter Hardy

About Porter Hardy

I’m a business owner, entrepreneur, and executive leader who has dedicated 12 years to…

Experience

1. President

   Smartmouth Brewing Co., Llc

   Mar 2012 — Present · Norfolk, VA, US

   Raised equity through multiple funding rounds including face-to-face meetings with prospective investors and formal presentations showcasing detailed financial projections•Achieved production goals, supervising the head brewer/production team alongside streamlining operations to maintain quality, boost efficiency, and manage costs•Increased distribution sales by maintaining distributor relations, regularly presenting to national grocery chains, participating in international trade missions, and effectively managing sales representatives •Secured local, state, and federal economic development grants•Managed the construction of 2 brewery locations in 2012 and 2017; handled permitting needs, interior design, industrial layout, and equipment purchasing•Presented to national chains such as Kroger, Harris Teeter, and Walmart•Oversaw the marketing director and established brand standards and vision for several marketing campaigns, including the development of hundreds of label designs•Led the marketing campaign for the nation’s most viral beer in 2019, Saturday Morning Marshmallow IPA, gaining recognition from USA Today, Esquire, and Jimmy FallonSpearhead the creation and development of a successful and nationally-recognized microbrewery from initial business plan formulation to full-scale operations. Oversee 5 managers and 30 employees across 2 retail locations. Supervise state-wide distribution, daily operations, strategic and financial planning, and HR processes.