People of Beam Suntory: Sam Schisler

People of Beam Suntory: Sam Schisler

“I came out to my sister on my 21st birthday. We were drinking champagne and she began to cry. I asked her if she hated me and she said, no, I love you, I just don’t want to see you get hurt. She understood my struggle in coming out because I didn’t want to lose the people I love, as those in my community often do. Growing up I felt very loved. My mother made sure of that. The area I grew up in was not the most welcoming environment for people in the LGBTQIA+ community, which is one reason I didn’t come out until I left home.

I have been an active public figure in the LGBTQIA+ community for over 20+ years now. This August, I will be inducted into the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance Softball (NAGAAA) Hall of Fame for my service work, dedication to the sport, and charity fundraising efforts, which is an incredible honor because I have a deep passion for my community, softball family and sports overall. I CrossFit five days a week and play in competitive pickleball and softball leagues. I honestly believe I would not be where I am today if not for the community I’ve built around sports.

Since joining Beam Suntory in 2019, it has always felt like home. I can authentically be myself and represent my community at events for the company, which is hugely important to me. Having the ability to be my genuine self at work is crucial because my personal and professional lives frequently coincide. I think one of my biggest contributions to Beam Suntory was securing the number one partnership spots for the Gay Softball World Series for the last 3 years, which has put us on the national stage in supporting one of the largest LGBTQIA+ sporting events in the world.

I take pride in working for Beam Suntory because I know that the company takes pride in its employees.

Through 25+ years of global management experience, I have become known as “The Phoenix” in the spirits world. And like the phoenix, I am a unique and rare find. I approach everything I do with creativity, 110% inclusivity, positivity, and authenticity. “

Sam Schisler—State Manager – Kansas (USA)