Each month, ForceBrands partners with The Tasting Panel magazine. The Tasting Panel offers an insider’s look at the tastemakers and trendsetters in today’s growing beverage industry. From winemaker profiles, to brands that are the bartenders’ best friend, this monthly publication gets up close and personal with today’s influencers and explores the products they love the most. With a readership of 85,000 professionals across all levels of the industry, The Tasting Panel maintains its position as a leading authoritative voice in the beverage industry. This article originally appeared in the May 2018 issue of The Tasting Panel.

Steven Varga spent the first 20 years of his career at Fortune 500 companies before he ventured into the world of consulting, which led him to his current role as the Chief Human Resources Executive at Columbus Distributing Co. Read on to get insights into what it’s like working in the fast-paced beverage industry and how hiring strategies are evolving as the industry changes.

ForceBrands: What excites you most about working in the beverage industry?
Steven Varga: It’s exciting to see how much the business has evolved over the last 20 years. It’s become much more dynamic and competitive. There are always new challenges to confront so it’s never boring. Plus, if you can’t have fun in the beverage industry, where can you?

FB: Given all the changes in the industry like consolidation, what major trends do you foresee regarding hiring strategies?
SV: I believe the changes in workforce demographics and expectations, as well as demand, will completely change and shape the future of the hiring strategies. We’re already seeing it now. The focus is no longer on a lifelong career with one company, nor is it solely focused on compensation. Factors such as flexibility, work-life balance, and value/purpose, along with work atmosphere, are becoming much more important.

FB: And just for fun, what’s your favorite alcoholic beverage outside of Columbus Distributing’s portfolio?
SV: I enjoy celebrating special occasions and holidays with a nice bottle of Asti with dinner, and a fine Scotch afterward.