Shawn Askinosie - Founder and CEO of Askinosie Chocolate

Professional Overview

Shawn Askinosie is an accomplished business leader and innovator in the craft chocolate industry. As the Founder and CEO of Askinosie Chocolate, he has successfully built a socially-conscious, bean-to-bar chocolate company renowned for its exceptional quality and ethical sourcing practices.

Experience Summary

Current Role

As the Founder and CEO of Askinosie Chocolate since 2005, Shawn is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the company's operations and strategic direction. Under his leadership, Askinosie Chocolate has become a nationally recognized brand synonymous with sustainable and transparent supply chain practices. Shawn's passion for direct trade relationships with cocoa farmers has enabled the company to source the finest quality cocoa beans while empowering rural cocoa-growing communities.

Career Progression

Prior to founding Askinosie Chocolate, Shawn had a successful career as a criminal defense lawyer. He served as an Associate Attorney at Haynes and Boone, LLP from 1989 to 1992 and then as a Criminal Defense Lawyer at Askinosie Law Offices from 1992 to 2007. Shawn's legal background and expertise have been invaluable in navigating the complexities of the chocolate industry and establishing Askinosie Chocolate as a socially responsible and transparent brand.

Academic Background

Shawn holds a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia, School of Law, and a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of Missouri-Columbia. He also spent a year studying at Sophia University in Tokyo, Japan, further broadening his global perspective.

Areas of Expertise

Shawn's expertise encompasses a unique blend of business acumen, legal knowledge, and a deep understanding of the craft chocolate industry. He is a recognized leader in sustainable sourcing practices, direct trade relationships, and innovative product development. Shawn's strong operational skills, coupled with his commitment to social responsibility, have been instrumental in Askinosie Chocolate's growth and industry recognition.

Professional Impact

Under Shawn's leadership, Askinosie Chocolate has received numerous accolades, including being named one of the "Top 10 Chocolate Makers in the World" by The International Chocolate Salon. Shawn has also been recognized as a "Top 10 Chocolatier in North America" by Taste TV and a "Champion of Change" by the White House for his work in empowering cocoa-growing communities.

Conclusion

Shawn Askinosie's remarkable journey from a criminal defense lawyer to a pioneering entrepreneur in the craft chocolate industry has been defined by his unwavering commitment to ethical business practices and social impact. As the Founder and CEO of Askinosie Chocolate, he continues to drive innovation and set new standards for sustainability and transparency in the chocolate industry.