Santo Tequila names new CEO
Santo Spirits, co-founded by musician Sammy Hagar and chef Guy Fieri, has announced the appointment of David Szydlik as the new president and CEO of the company.
Szydlik assumes the position of president and CEO at Santo, succeeding Dan Butkus, who transitions to a partner role within the company.
Szydlik has more than 30 years of experience in the beverage industry. Most recently, he served as the chief operating officer for Two Sons Imports, the former owner of Cantera Negra Tequila.
During his six-year tenure at Two Sons Imports, he played a key role in expanding Cantera Negra from a start-up brand operating in four states to one distributed in all 50 states, Canada, and the Caribbean. The brand was acquired by Deutsch Family Wine and Spirits in 2025, following a minority stake purchase in 2022.
Szydlik has also served as president of Purity Vodka and held executive roles in sales and operations at Pernod Ricard, Coors Brewing Company, and Coca-Cola Enterprises.
He said: “Following the purchase of Cantera Negra Tequila by Deutsch, I was looking for a new opportunity to take what I learned with that brand and apply it to another company doing things the right way.
“The passion and knowledge Sammy and Guy bring to Santo Tequila is truly unmatched. They are the real deal, and I am honoured to be able to join the team and contribute to their vision of offering consumers authentic, honest and damn good Tequila.”
Hagar added: “David’s growth record with Cantera Negra Tequila and his deep distributor and retailer relationships built over the past several decades were key drivers for us bringing him on board to pilot the next phase for Santo.
“The Tequila category is undergoing a transitional shift as consumers gravitate towards brands that are authentic and transparent. Our credentials in this area, including championing our additive-free, time-honored production methods, are our calling card. David has the experience and insight to capitalise on these important attributes and take us to another level.”
Santo Spirits was established in 2017 with the introduction of Mezquila, ‘the world’s first’ blend of Tequila and mezcal, made from Blue Weber and Espadin agaves. The spirit is priced at US$59.99.
Today, the company’s portfolio includes four varieties of 100% Blue Weber agave tequila: Blanco (US$39.99), Reposado (US$49.99), Añejo (US$69.99), and Blanco 110 Proof (US$69.99).
Santo Spirits products are available across the US and in Mexico, Canada, Japan, South Africa, and the Philippines.
In November 2024, the firm faced a scandal when two trucks carrying approximately US$1 million worth of Santo Tequila were stolen after crossing the US-Mexico border.
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