Bending Branch tabs Cernosek as chief operating officer

COMFORT — Bending Branch Winery named its first Chief Operating Officer, promoting Jennifer Cernosek to the new position.

Since joining the winery as direct-to-consumer manager in 2018, Cernosek has advanced from general manager to commanding the full breadth of a four-brand company. She now leads a team of nearly 40 individuals spanning winemaking and cellar operations, bourbon production, vineyard management, hospitality, marketing sales and facilities, along with a robust custom crush program serving more than 20 Texas wineries.

“Jennifer came to Bending Branch with exceptional skills and a remarkable work ethic, and she has played an integral role in the growth and development of the business,” said Dr. Bob Young, CEO and Executive winemaker. “She knows our people, our partners and our mission with a depth that only comes from genuine commitment, and she leads this company with the same care and integrity as if it were her own.

“Promoting her to COO is both the right recognition for what she has contributed and the right foundation for where Bending Branch is headed,” Young added.

Cernosek brings a record of organizational leadership and managing complex operations. Before joining Bending Branch, she served as engagement director for a statewide organization with approximately 65,000 members.

She has served her community through association committees and in long-time volunteer leadership roles, including as a board director of the Comfort Area Foundation. She holds a WSET Level 3 certification and is a credentialed Executive Bourbon Steward, teaching WSET Levels 1 and 2 classes as well as the Associate Bourbon Steward course.