Behind the Scenes at the Redhook Brewery

Long before Nick Wright was promoted to Pub Manager of Redhook Brewery’s popular Cataqua Pub, he had quite a track record with the organization.

It started during his days at UNH, when he was pursuing an undergraduate degree in Business Management and Sociology: he would come for the brewery tours, fascinated by both the brewing process, and the management of the operation.

After graduation, he started working for Redhook as a server. Within a year, he was promoted to a joint position of bartender and pub supervisor. Then, after three years with Redhook, he was promoted to Pub Manager, helping make 2011 the Pub’s most successful year on record.  But his current management responsibilities haven’t dampened his infectious enthusiasm for reporting to work.

“I still get to constantly meet great new customers, which is the most fun part of my job,” said Wright. “I find a lot of our customers share similar interests with me, and creating relationships with them not only helps the Pub’s bottom line, but also gratifies me personally.”

As for the challenges associated with managing a growing business, Wright takes it all in stride. “As far as problems go, it’s a good one to have!” he chuckles. “The biggest challenge is keeping up with our growing level of business. But seeing our customers relax with great food and beer, and walking out with smiles makes the challenges and hard work all worthwhile.”

When not working at the Pub, Wright enjoys spending time with his dog, taking the pooch to their favorite spots for a cool dip in the pond, or spending time fulfilling his passion for outdoor recreation and fitness. Wright’s a fixture on Redhook’s softball team, and hits the slopes when he can during the Winter.

As for his broader philosophies in life, Wright keeps things simple. “I believe in leading by example, and living within one’s means. I don’t believe in either producing or consuming more than one needs.”

That mantra of keeping material desires in check is one reason that Redhook is a member of the Green Alliance, which connects green businesses with the burgeoning eco-conscious communities of eastern New England. Green Alliance members receive a 10% discount on food at Redhook, as well as discounts at 95 other green businesses across the region. The Cataqua Pub at Redhook also has Green Cards for sale right in the Pub.

And just because Winter has officially arrived doesn’t mean Redhook’s popular events are put on hold: the Pub is gearing up for Polar Grill Fest on January 28, a 21+ event which featuring outdoor bars, heated tents, fire pits, live music, and lots of food, courtesy of The Meat House. All proceeds from this event benefit Share Our Strength’s “No Kid Hungry” campaign to end childhood hunger. For more information, folks can visit http://polargrillfest.com/the-cause.htm, or to purchase tickets, stop in at Redhook Brewery or any New Hampshire or Maine Meat House location.

And say hello to Nick the next time you’re at Redhook!  

For more information:

Redhook Brewery: www.redhook.com

Green Alliance: www.greenalliance.biz