VineSpring Team Spotlight | Howard Towt

Assisting craft producers from his home in Parker, Colorado, Howard Towt is an integral part of the VineSpring customer success team. When a craft producer launches their eCommerce store with VineSpring, Howard is the one that helps them transition all of their data from their previous system—ensuring all customers don’t miss a beat. Learn more about Howard, what he’s noticed about modern wine clubs, and where you can find him on vacation.

What led you to work at VineSpring and what did you do before?

Before VineSpring, I worked as a Product Manager at a Denver-based Internet Service Provider. The interaction with customers is what I enjoyed most.

What learnings did you bring from your past experiences that have made you successful at VineSpring?

I’ve learned that earning trust from clients makes all the difference.

Tell us about your daily role at VineSpring.

You’ll often find me working deep in spreadsheets and talking with clients. My job is to guide our clients as they transition from whatever system they used in the past to the VineSpring eCommerce system. Oftentimes that involves migrating data about customers, clubs, and products. We want to provide the smoothest transition possible so our clients can continue to serve their customers without missing a beat.

How has VineSpring and the industries that you serve evolved over the years?

We’re in the middle of a transition period for both cult wineries and large wine producers. Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) sales are becoming a principal marketing venue and a vital selling channel. We’re proud that VineSpring is able to help our customers navigate this transition and get their products into more hands (and mouths.)

You talk to VineSpring clients daily. What are some creative ways that craft producers are managing their clubs or doing eCommerce these days?

VineSpring clients are a diverse and special group. Some require a helping hand, and others are incredibly fast in adapting. The passion required of those who get into the business of wine production is an inspiration in itself. They all have amazing stories but their shared dedication to the land and its abundance is what is sublime.

These days, our clients are making their club offerings more comprehensive and flexible. Customers can sign up with a pay-as-you-go plan or prepay for a year in advance. Clients attach promotional items like free hats and T-Shirts. It makes club activities fun and interesting and I enjoy being part of the process that’s making it all happen!

What do you think sets VineSpring apart from other eCommerce and club management platforms?

The custom design effort is impressive. VineSpring is particularly responsive to client requests for system modifications and improvements. We want our clients to have a flexible system that meets their unique needs—and helps them get there. That sets us apart.

What do you think clients like the most about working with VineSpring?

Customer service is a VineSpring hallmark—it’s what we’re known for and we’re proud of it. Clients appreciate our customer service team and the close personal contact they provide. The team spirit at VineSpring is what keeps us going.

The VineSpring team is located all over the country and has been working remotely for years. Do you have any tips for leading a technology team remotely?

A fast, reliable Internet connection is a necessity. Other than that, a work-at-home environment is a plus, especially if you have comfortable slippers and a cat that enjoys your company.

If you could go on an all-expense-paid vacation (post-COVID), where would you go and who would you bring?

Italy is high on the list. My wife and I enjoy food and wine, and it doesn’t get much better than Italy. Cacio e Pepe and Linguine con Vongole always taste best in Italy.