Staff Report
Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co., the award-winning brewer based in Buellton, has named 30-year beer industry executive Steve Almaraz as a partner and president.
Almaraz will work closely with founder and Senior Board Executive Jaime Dietenhofer on Figueroa’s ambitious growth plan after the completion of the company’s two-year multimillion-dollar brewery upgrade.
“We are thrilled to have Steve on the Figueroa team. His knowledge and experience in the craft and specialty beverage industry makes him the perfect choice in leading the company on its aggressive growth plan,” Dietenhofer said. “We built the business through tireless customer and community outreach, and I am excited to get back to my roots of engaging with our distributor partners, retailers and loyal customer base.”
Almaraz has a long history in sales and marketing. His most recent position was managing the craft category for Reyes Beer Division, focusing on growing and developing the craft and specialty brand portfolio. Prior to his tenure at Reyes, he spent 15 years with Firestone Walker as a member of the executive team, instrumental in growing the business from its early beginnings to over 230,000 barrels a year.
“I’m excited to come back home to the Central Coast to work with Jaime and the Fig Family,” said Almaraz. “I have always admired Jaime’s vision and success of creating a unique culture and community. I look forward to partnering and creating some exciting new things at Figueroa Mountain.”
Entering its tenth year, company intends to continue in the spirt of beloved co-founder and partner James Dietenhofer, who died in July. “My dad and I grew this business through a shared vision of respect and admiration for our customers, employees, and community,” said Dietenhofer. “I’m honored to be able to support his legacy as Figueroa Mountain embarks on this next stage with the collective stewardship of Steve, myself, and the company’s board and executive team.”
