Working Together To

Gaston Martinez, Co-Founder and President

A native of Durango, Mexico, Gaston graduated from Universidad Iberro Americana in Mexico City, with a degree in business. As an entrepreneur in Mexico, he worked in various industries including international freight and logistics, and later as a pottery manufacturer. In 2005 he moved to San Diego while working in the restaurant and hospitality industry, eventually moving into the wine and spirits markets, where he developed substantial sales skills and key industry relationships. In 2017 he shared with his friend, Linda Belzberg, his lifelong vision to bring the celebration of his Mexican heritage to the world, by preserving the legacy of pure, all natural mezcal for which his hometown is known. Shortly thereafter, together with Linda’s son Torrey, they created “IZO”, a partnership based in the love of the Mexican culture. Today, they proudly share IZO’s award-winning, sustainably-crafted Mexican spirits with people beyond Durango. When you experience the smooth, sophisticated taste and aroma of any of IZO’s premium spirits, you’re tasting centuries of Mexican tradition.

Linda Belzberg, Co-Founder and Vice-president

After establishing a successful career in marketing in Vancouver, Canada, Linda transitioned to land development, focusing on single family residential projects. Her success in the Canadian market precipitated a move to San Diego in 2012, where she further developed her love for the real estate investment business. Always looking for a new challenge and sharing Gaston’s interest in the culture of Mexico, Linda embraced her friend Gaston’s idea of creating a natural Mexican spirits company. Along with her son Torrey, they co-founded “IZO”.

Harry R. Bigham, Chief Financial Officer

Graduating in 1975 from the Finance Department of the College of Business Administration at the University of Notre Dame, Harry served as an officer in the United States Navy for 4 years before establishing a career as a financial advisor and investment consultant. He has been a principal in over 50 Limited Partnerships and Limited Liability Companies, helping to acquire, operate, develop and invest in over $300,000,000 worth of real property. He brings to IZO a fresh perspective and unique expertise in all corporate financial matters, including tax planning, entity formation and operations, cost analysis, budgeting, cash flow and marketing strategies.

Melissa Reinard, Accounting

As a graduate of the University of San Diego with a Bachelors in Business Administration, Melissa has over 25 years of experience in accounting and administration with a San Diego based real estate investment firm, helping to oversee $400 million-worth of real property transactions. Melissa brings with her a strong background in investor relations and communication. She handles the company accounting and assists with a broad range of other functions; working closely with distributors, vendors and the sales team with ongoing day-to-day operations.

Tyson Crawford, Event Coordinator

Tyson contributes in-depth expertise gained during more than 20 years in the Retail Food Industry. A seasoned professional adept at both sales and promotional activities, he also oversees the brand’s growing contingent of San Diego-based Regional Representatives and Brand Ambassadors.