At a ceremony hosted by the San Diego Business Journal on December 6, Stone Brewing Co. CEO and co-founder Greg Koch was named “2012 Most Admired CEO” among San Diego County’s privately held large companies.
After being credited with “pioneering the craft beer movement in San Diego” by judge Jim Wening, Koch took the stage, Stone Pale Ale in-hand.
“I am humbled and honored to be recognized by the San Diego Business Journal as one of San Diego’s most admired CEOs,” Koch reflected. He also praised Stone brewmaster & co-founder Steve Wagner and all Stone employees for the success:
“I couldn’t have done it without the dedicated people that make up our company. I know the raucous cheering and applause was positive confirmation of the things our talented team has accomplished to make a difference in craft brewing, the food movement and in our community, rather than just for me personally. I was lucky enough to be called to the podium to receive recognition, but greater acknowledgment must be given to Team Stone for the awesome jobs they do. Stone Brewing is unquestionably the result of a team effort!”
Koch was one of nine CEOs chosen from 106 finalists based on contributions made to their companies and the community, with emphasis on innovation, leadership and financial growth. The independent panel of judges included Mike Barone, president and CEO at Intercare Insurance Solutions; Ruben Barrales, president and CEO at the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce; Reid Carr, president at Red Door Interactive; Ronne Froman, chairman of the board of directors of the Monarch School; John Morrell, chairman and managing partner at Higgs Fletcher & Mack LLP; and Jim Wening, president at JP Morgan Chase.