Joan (Joanie) M. O’Sullivan-Butler, president and CEO of John P. O’Sullivan Distributing, Inc., leads a second-generation beverage distribution company based in Grand Blanc. In her role, she oversees the distribution of beer, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages to over 2,200 retailers throughout mid-Michigan. Joanie has guided the family business through rapid organic sales growth, as well as multiple brand and territory acquisitions. Her leadership and passion have earned the company recognition as a top distributor by numerous supplier partners, including winning the prestigious Molson Coors President’s Award six times in the last 12 years.
Joanie joined John P. O’Sullivan Distributing in 2000. Before taking on her current role, she served as Chief Legal Counsel and Distributor Operations Manager, working alongside the company’s founder—her father, John P. O’Sullivan. She also previously worked as an attorney in Washington, D.C. Joanie holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Notre Dame, a Juris Doctor from The Catholic University of America, and an LL.M. from Georgetown University.
This year, Joanie was elected as the first female Chairperson of the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association in over 18 years. She has also served on the Board of Directors for Whaley Children’s Center and Catholic Charities for Genesee and Shiawassee Counties. In her free time, Joanie enjoys spending time with her family and traveling.
In the Q&A that follows, Joanie offers thoughtful insights on her career path, her goals and how much family means to her.
1. Who was most influential in your career path?
My parents have been the most influential people in my career. They built our family business from the ground up and instilled in me the value of hard work and perseverance. They not only encouraged me to pursue higher education through college and law school, but also served as incredible mentors.
2. What’s your definition of success?
To me, success means finding balance—being able to give my best to both my family and my work while enjoying the journey, with all of its ups and downs.
3. What is your favorite game or sport to watch or play?
I love watching tennis—our family just got back from a trip to the U.S. Open. It was an unforgettable experience. I also enjoy playing tennis, jogging, and group workout classes.
To me, success means finding balance—being able to give my best to both my family and my work while enjoying the journey, with all of its ups and downs.
4. What’s a place you’ve always wanted to travel to?
Japan has always been at the top of my list.
5. What’s a goal you’ve recently accomplished?
After serving on the board of the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association for 11 years, I was honored to be named chairperson of the board this past July.
6. What are your biggest goals for the future?
I hope to see John P. O’Sullivan Distributing become a third-generation family business—one that continues to grow, evolve, and diversify across all types of beverages.
7. If you had a “WARNING” label, what would it say?
WARNING: Fueled by coffee and Coke Zero.
