Runamok names new CEO and CMO as founders shift roles

Runamok is marking its 10th anniversary by naming Ashley Wainer CEO and Kelly Murnaghan chief marketing officer as co-founders Laura and Eric Sorkin move into strategic leadership roles. The Vermont maple brand says the leadership changes are aimed at supporting a second decade of growth, including new culinary partnerships and expanded foodservice offerings.

Why it matters: - Runamok is moving from founder-led growth to a more formal leadership structure as it enters its second decade. - The executive changes are designed to support expansion without losing the craftsmanship and brand identity that helped build the company. - Runamok also plans to broaden its reach through new culinary partnerships and more foodservice business.

What happened: - Runamok named Ashley Wainer chief executive officer. - Runamok hired Kelly Murnaghan as chief marketing officer. - Co-founders Laura and Eric Sorkin are shifting into strategic leadership roles. - The company is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. - Eric Sorkin said the company still has more to explore as maple reaches new uses beyond traditional syrup.

The details: - Wainer spent the past three years as Runamok’s fractional president and CFO, where she oversaw operations. - Wainer previously held executive roles at Vermont Gas Systems and KPMG. - Wainer said the company needs new systems and structure as it grows. - Wainer said her focus is on helping Runamok scale thoughtfully while preserving its entrepreneurial spirit. - Murnaghan previously led marketing at Burton Snowboards, Vans, Converse, Lagunitas Brewing Company and Shady Rays. - Murnaghan will oversee brand strategy, marketing, digital and partnerships. - Murnaghan said Laura and Eric Sorkin created a brand with room to keep innovating in maple.

Between the lines: - Runamok is signaling that its next phase is less about startup energy and more about building repeatable systems for a larger business. - The company is pairing operational experience with consumer-brand marketing expertise, a combination that fits a brand trying to widen distribution and use cases. - The leadership transition suggests the Sorkins are staying involved, but with a narrower focus on strategy rather than day-to-day management.

What's next: - Runamok plans to pursue new culinary partnerships. - Runamok expects to expand its foodservice offerings. - Wainer and Murnaghan will help guide the company’s second-decade growth strategy. - Runamok continues to sell pure, barrel-aged, smoked and infused maple syrups, plus Sparkle Syrup®, through retail, foodservice, Amazon and Runamok Maple.