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V O L . X X I I N O. X X I I I O C T O B E R 3 , 2 0 1 6 36 S ean Sullivan, executive director of the Maine Brewers' Guild and one of the partners who recently sold local gift-card company Buoy Local to Bangor Savings Bank, is somewhat of a paradox. Calmly sipping beer and point- ing to the art decorating Foulmouthed Brewing in South Portland, he leaned forward and became animated when the discussion turned to business. He readily admits he's full of energy and enthusi- asm for whatever project he undertakes. Take Buoy Local: Sullivan and co-founder Kai Smith came up with the idea at the 2013 Startup Weekend Maine, an intensive 54-hour entrepre- neurial event. " at's the fi rst time I sat in a room and met people similar to me, people who couldn't sleep because they had so many ideas," he says. Sullivan, 32, describes himself as a connector, someone who is passionate about sharing a good thing, whether it be a local shopping experience, going to a brewery, meeting a local entrepre- neur or about the state of Maine. He says he introduces himself at con- ferences and other events by saying, "I'm the luckiest son of a bitch in Maine." He adds, "I love my work and the guild." 207-854-2422 directpersonnel.net 1-800-639-8802 mainestaff.com A corporate division of Maine Staffing Group Call us today! Diverse hiring solutions for Maine's competitive economy Filling entry-level roles to specialized technical positions. Providing skilled candidates for any industry! • Healthcare • Administrative • Accounting/Financial And much more! A brewing industry As craft brewing evolves, Sean Sullivan aims to keep Maine at the top B y L o r i V a l i g r a P H O T O / T I M G R E E N WAY My goal is to make Maine craft beer synonymous with quality. We want to be a Top 3 destination in the United States for beer. Sean Sullivan Executive director Maine Brewers' Guild, South Portland