| Tell us a bit about your professional background.
Akshay Anikhindi: I’ve been working in the nonprofit and association space for the last 15 years as a digital communications manager and IT professional. I’m passionate about working specifically with these organizations because I believe it gives me a sense of purpose within my career.
Anna Klainbaum: I’ve worked across marketing and communications my entire career, with a focus on content and brand development. Nearly every job I’ve had since I was 16 years old has been in food, wine, spirits, or hospitality, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I also have an extensive background in working with associations, so it’s wonderful to be able to bring together all of that experience in this new role.
What attracted you to the position at ACSA?
Anikhindi: Throughout my career working with different organizations, I have never worked for an association where I actually feel as if I understand the members. I’m an avid bourbon collector, and consider myself an amateur mixologist, so I am genuinely excited to represent an association whose founding members include some of my favorite distilleries like Copper Fox and Widow Jane.
Klainbaum: I had worked with the organization as a consultant in the past, and was so impressed by the staff. They are so committed to the success of the craft spirits industry, and they are a pleasure to work with.
Describe your new role.
Anikhindi: As ACSA’s IT Strategist and Technology Integration Manager, I will be wearing many different hats: managing the organization’s IT needs, website and email platforms, and providing training to the staff around these new tools.
Klainbaum: In this role I’m leading all marketing efforts and membership initiatives, working closely with each staff member to help bring together the big picture for ACSA members. I think of it as connecting the dots between all of the amazing programs we have so that members can be aware of, and benefit from, everything ACSA has to offer them.
What are some of your primary objectives you hope to achieve in the role?
Anikhindi: This role brings a unique and exciting opportunity: to help shape and drive the information technology platforms and digital communication needs of this young organization. I also want to provide support to all the various staff so that they can operate to the best of their abilities with the tools they need.
Klainbaum: Growing the membership and ensuring each and every member feels excited about being an ACSA member. I’m looking forward to strengthening the brand’s touchpoints—the website, email newsletters, social media and overall member communications
What excites you the most about the craft spirits industry?
Anikhindi: There is plenty of room for innovation and to try something different. Craft spirit distillers can forge their own path, without being burdened by a sense of heritage or forced to cater to a built-in audience. I think people are looking for something fresh and unique. I know I am!
Klainbaum: I love the people, and that it’s an industry built on relationships (as well as delicious drinks.) I have a lot of respect for the passion and entrepreneurial drive it takes to bring a craft spirit to market. So much love and energy goes into each bottle!
Any hobbies/interests when you’re not working?
Anikhindi: My two young children (5 and 2 years old) keep me busy most of the time! Otherwise, I am a big film and TV buff, occasionally find time to play video games, and have taken up golf over the last few years as a way to get out of the house. I also enjoy traveling: I’ve been to every continent except for Antarctica!
Klainbaum: Gardening, specifically learning about the native plants and animals of the Northeast, where I live. Everything’s so interconnected and there’s so much to learn. Plus, like craft spirits, there is a really cool community of people to learn from and share the hobby with.
What is most likely to be in your glass?
Anikhindi: I’m a bourbon, rye and whiskey guy, but love drinking (and making) cocktails as well. My go-to bourbon is usually the Virginia-based A. Smith Bowman Distillery’s John J. Bowman Single Barrel. I’m also a huge fan of the stuff Starlight and Nulu are putting out with the finished whiskeys.
Klainbaum: Gin and tequila are tops for me. Lambrusco also makes me quite happy! |
