Michaela Nicole Christman
Michaela Christman is a sales and operations leader with a demonstrated record of driving business growth, building high-performing teams, and creating meaningful impact across industries. She currently serves as Regional Sales Manager at Wildfire Beverage Company, where she oversees sales strategy, market expansion, and account development throughout the competitive Florida market.
Previously, Michaela spent three years at PepsiCo as a Sales District Leader, where she consistently delivered double-digit territory growth, opened new accounts, and developed frontline employees into leadership roles. During her time, she was a part of the Pepsi Pro Elite team awarded for outstanding performance two years in a row, a distinguished honor and award within the company. She also gained valuable experience in logistics and operations with her previous companies, and began her career in marketing and academic support at Marshall University, where she pursued both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Business Administration.
Throughout her career, Michaela has mentored more than ten professionals in reaching their career goals, reflecting her commitment to leadership development. She has been actively involved in organizations such as Women’s Inclusion Network, BB&T Leadership Development Program, Order of Omega and Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority, where she was recognized with awards including Most Active Member three years in a row and President of the Year. She also acted as a Recruitment Advisor for her sorority chapter at Saint Leo University in Florida.
Outside of her professional life, Michaela is passionate about giving back and supports organizations such as Sigma Serves Children, March of Dimes, and First Ladies Farm & Sanctuary. In her free time, she enjoys working out, playing multiple instruments, kayaking, working on cars, playing basketball, rock climbing, and spending time with her friends, family, and German Shepherd, Onyx. Guided by a leadership philosophy rooted in creativity, perseverance, and a people-first approach, Michaela continues to make her mark as a rising leader in the beverage industry.
Her personal mantra is: “Success is more than results—it’s the ability to inspire change, mentor others, and leave every person and place better than you found it.”
• HubSpot Inbound Marketing - 2021
• Google Analytics
• Marshall University - MBA
• Marshall University - BS
• Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority
• Order of Omega
What do you attribute your success to?
She attributes much of her success to the example and guidance of her parents, who have been her most influential mentors. They instilled in her the values of perseverance, integrity, and compassion, teaching her from an early age that hard work should always be paired with humility, and that true success comes not only from achieving your own goals but also from helping others along the way. Their encouragement gave her the confidence to take on challenges, while their support taught her the importance of resilience and adaptability. She carries those lessons into every role she takes on, and they continue to guide how she leads, grows, and supports those around her. She has also been fortunate to have a close circle of friends who constantly challenge and encourage her, along with her childhood coach, David Bailey, whose mentorship instilled discipline, teamwork, and self-belief at a pivotal time in her life. Their impact has been instrumental in shaping the leader and person she strives to be today.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice she’s received is to focus on developing people, not just results, and to never shy away from challenges that feel bigger than you. She believes true leadership is measured by the growth of others, and that the greatest opportunities for success come from stepping into situations that stretch and challenge you.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to believe in the value you bring and never shy away from having a voice at the table. This industry can be competitive, but confidence paired with preparation will set you apart. Focus on building genuine relationships, seek mentors who challenge and support you, and don’t be afraid to step into opportunities that feel bigger than you — that’s where growth happens. Most importantly, remember that leadership is not about titles, but about the impact you have on others, so lead with authenticity and make space for those around you to succeed as well.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in the beverage industry right now is the level of competition and constant change in consumer preferences. Customers want authenticity, transparency, and experiences that go beyond the product itself, which pushes brands to continually innovate and adapt. At the same time, that challenge is also the greatest opportunity. There’s so much room to grow by telling the stories behind the brands, creating meaningful connections through education and experiences, and positioning products as part of moments of celebration. For those willing to embrace change and stay agile, it’s an exciting time to build lasting growth and brand loyalty.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, perseverance, and service to others. I believe in doing the right thing even when it’s not the easiest path, staying resilient through challenges, and measuring success by the positive impact I can have on people around me. Mentorship, collaboration, and authenticity are also central to how I lead and build relationships, because I’ve found that true growth happens when you lift others up and create space for them to succeed.