Michael Cellucci Resigns from Drew Estate

Michael Cellucci has resigned as the president of Drew Estate.

The news comes just days before the start of the annual IPCPR Convention & Trade Show and means that one of the largest companies in the premium cigar space will be under new management. That role will fall to Glenn Wolfson, a consultant who was recently hired by Swisher International, parent of Drew Estate.

Wolfson is expected to be appointed ceo of Drew Estate.

“It’s a sad day for me leaving this company that I have poured my heart into for the last 16 years,” said Cellucci to halfwheel. “I love what we have built, and love the people that we built it with. It came time for me to be honest with myself and understand that I was time for me to step aside. I truly cherish the my time with this company. I love this industry and all of the passionate people in it. I am not going riding off into the sunset. It’s not goodbye – just good bye for now.”

Cellucci joined the company in 2000 and became its inside sales director before being promoted to national sales director in 2003, vp of business development in 2005, vp of sales in 2007 and president in 2012.

He oversaw Drew Estate’s sale to Swisher International in 2014 and remained on as president up until his resignation earlier this week.

“We appreciate all Mike has done for Drew Estate,” said Peter Ghiloni, Swisher International’s ceo, to halfwheel. “Mike decided it was time to look at other opportunities. Nothing will really change at Drew Estate. Jonathan (Drew) and Marvin (Samel) are still part of the company.”

Rich Culter, who just last month announced his retirement from Drew Estate, is now back at the company temporarily to help with the transition.

Cellucci has a one year non-compete clause that will prevent him from working for any tobacco or vapor company.