Ike Karipides Replaces David Lazarus as Drew Estate’s SVP of Sales

Drew Estate has formally announced that Ike Karipides has been promoted to the position of svp of sales, succeeding David Lazarus, who the company says retired at the end of January.

Karipides joined Drew Estate in 2018 as the director of specialty retail. He most recently served as the vice president direct, with a focus on specialty retail, online and liquor chain channels. Now, he will oversee all of the company’s sales operations, which, in addition to traditional sales departments, includes business intelligence and trade marketing divisions.

“Ike has amassed deep expertise in various facets of the premium cigar industry during his 28-year career,” said Glenn Wolfson, ceo of Drew Estate, in a press release. “He is a consummate professional who is highly respected by colleagues, competitors, customers, and consumers throughout our industry. ​ Ike’s strategic acumen, operational excellence, and change management capabilities will enable him to lead our sales organization to even greater heights, as Drew Estate continues to evolve and grow over the years to come.”

Prior to his time at Drew Estate, Karipides worked at Nat Sherman International as the executive director of premium cigar sales. His career also includes stops at Barclay-Rex, Cousin’s Cigars, House of Oxford and Miami Cigar & Co.

“Ike is unique. ​His industry leadership, knowledge of the premium cigar business, and passion for Drew Estate culture results in explosive talent, contributing tremendously throughout our organization in a relatively short tenure,” said Jonathan Drew, co-founder, president and chief marketing officer of Drew Estate. ​“It’s an honor to work with the man, who I also consider a dear friend.”

Karipides takes over from David Lazarus, who started in the role in January 2017.