Previously, Martin was a senior marketing executive for Bacardi USA responsible for reinvigorating its flavored and spiced Rum brands. Although Martin’s experience has been built within the food and beverage industry, where he has been successful by being the catalyst for growth, his exposure to several other industries has provided a better set of tools as he creates winning strategies. He has built and launched several start up companies and lead them from zero\ revenue to profitability traditionally within a year. In addition to launching and exiting from his own successful tea company, Village Tea Company, he has revived stagnant brands such as Nantucket Nectars, Hawaiian Punch and 7UP into growth properties. He also drove the resurgence of Colt 45, Rainier and Schlitz Malt Liquor by creating key pop culture partnerships with Snoop Dog, Playboy and others.
Identifying the opportunity to invest in locally grown and black owned health and wellness companies, he started Village Life which invests in idea to exit opportunities around the country. Martin Ekechukwu is sought after for his expertise in helping brand achieve strong revenue growth and prepare for international expansion.
He is an active member of Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business helping to support new students and aspiring entrepreneurs in reaching their goals. He is an active speaker and sits on multiple entrepreneurship panels around the United States.
Martin has 3 goals in life that he consistently strives to achieve. #1 Be the best strategic marketer and service provider to his clients. #2 Be the example and bridge for all entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs of color seeking to drive/grow their business #3 Be the best father and solid foundation/example for those for whom he represents.