Spec’s is a family-owned and operated business with experienced and passionate professionals who are committed to serving fellow Texans. We are confident that you’ll find each and every member to be knowledgeable, friendly, and dedicated to your satisfaction. Thank you for taking the time to get to know us!
JOHN RYDMAN
President/Owner
I joined Spec’s in 1971 with my wife and second-generation family member, Lindy. I had to learn the business from the ground up, and by 1974 we introduced the largest selection of wines in Houston. Our goal is to serve you better in everything we do.
LINDY RYDMAN
Second Generation Family Owner
I’ve been dedicated to serving Spec’s customers ever since I joined my father’s business in 1971. Now with almost 200 stores in Texas, I think my dad would be proud of our efforts… although he might be disappointed that we no longer wear roller skates inside the store like he did!
LISA RYDMAN-LINDSEY
Third Generation
As the granddaughter of Carroll ‘Spec’ Jackson, I am extremely proud to be third generation family. I handle all of Spec’s charitable giving as well as all marketing and advertising. I joined the family business in 1995 and have loved every minute since, especially seeing the good our charity work has done for Texans in need.
MIKE GARCIA
Director of Human Resources
I have been fortunate to work with the Spec’s family since 2009 and it was the best career decision I could have ever made. As a lifelong Houstonian, it is an honor to be part of an iconic Houston-based organization. I am glad to be a champion for our company and our team.
DAWN HILTY
Director of Real Estate
I have worked in retail real estate for several years handling site selection, lease negotiations and asset management. I am very proud to be a part of this amazing family business and I look forward to expanding the Spec’s brand!
STEVE MOORE
Director of Operations
Since joining Spec’s in 2009 it has been my privilege to work for and with amazing people. For me, this has been a full commitment to make our stores the preferred place for Texans (and everybody else!) to shop or work.
STEVE JABOUR
Statewide Director Wholesale Department
A solid history leads to a solid future. I’ve enjoyed being in the liquor industry for over 31 years, from delivery driver to owning my own chain of stores. After joining Spec’s in 2012, I’ve had the opportunity to build and operate a world-class On-Premises operation throughout Texas. Since then, we have remained successful because of our philosophy: be the best partner to our customers.
CESAR DEMARK
Transportation and Distribution
For over 25 years, I have been involved in Facilities Management, Distribution, Strategic Planning and Fleet Operations for Spec’s locations across the state. Since the beginning of my career with Spec’s, we’ve experienced so much growth and success and I could not be more proud to be a part of such an amazing company.
JIM DETMORE
Spirits Buyer
After being in the industry for over 35 years, I have extensive experience and knowledge about scotch, bourbon, gin, vodka, liqueurs, tequila, cognac and brandies. It is my responsibility to seek out new brands and make sure Spec’s has the most varied, extensive selection available.
JUSTIN CODY
Craft and High-End Beer Buyer
I’ve been working with Spec’s for eight years and have enjoyed being a part of the craft beer revival. It is my responsibility to ensure that our stores are kept up-to-date on all the latest beer trends and newest products. I’ve always had an interesting obsession with beer, from collecting vintage cans to commissioning artists to paint bottle portraits of my favorite beers.
JAMES BARLOW
Wine Buyer
I’ve been working with Spec’s for over 15 years and have had the pleasure to watch the company expand. During this time, I’ve become a Certified Wine Educator, Certified Specialist of Spirits, and Certified Sommelier and have had the extreme pleasure of becoming one of 200 Bourgogne Wines Ambassadors in the world. My current role for Spec’s is buyer of Fine Wine America and Saké.
TOM DOBSON
Wine Buyer
I caught the wine bug after studying abroad in France during my time as a Political Science/French student at Texas A&M University. After starting with Spec’s in January 2010 in College Station, I moved to Dallas to facilitate new store openings, then took over French and Italian category management for the company. I am now based at the Midtown location.
PETER GRYSKA
Food Buyer and Category Manager
I have spent my career sourcing food, as a fisherman off Cape Cod to a beef buyer in Texas. At Spec’s, I am thrilled to bring decades of experience searching for the Finest foods to please and entertain our guests. I work with the entire Spec’s team to add to the fun!
BILL COATES
Wine Consultant
I’ve been a Wine Consultant at Spec’s for over 30 years. My goal is for each customer to leave with what they need, while feeling comfortable, satisfied and happy. I provide a personal shopper experience, and help customers with everything from party planning, wine pairings, choosing the perfect gift, and building and stocking wine cellars.
RYAN HOLDER
Cigar Expert
I’ve been in the cigar industry for over 20 years, traveling and learning about cigars and their production. I started with Spec’s 16 years ago as the District Manager and Tobacco Buyer. I love talking with customers and teaching them about cigars. I also enjoy shooting sporting clays and spending time with my family.
SKIP CARLETON
DFW/Metroplex Regional Manager
As a valued member of the Spec’s family for over 10 years, I brought with me extensive experience in the industry. As our DFW Regional Manager, I have aided in expanding our reach in the North Texas area. Go Cowboys! My unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and going above and beyond to make each customer feel like they are our only ones are what I strive for.
CRUZ VASQUEZ
South Texas Regional Manager
I have been in the industry for close to 30 years and over the last 12, I have been with Spec’s. It is exciting to be a part of the growth throughout the state and in South Texas. Spec’s is a family-oriented company that makes all feel at home.
JENN SHARP
Central Texas Regional Manager
I joined the Spec’s family in 2009 and I have worked in stores all over Austin and San Antonio. I am proud to work for a Texas family-owned business that gives back to our communities. My goal is to ensure each guest has the best experience every time they visit one of our stores.
JAKE DUKE
DFW/Metroplex Regional Manager
Since joining the Spec’s family in 2010, it has been exciting and enjoyable being part of our rapid growth. My team and I are responsible for the Dallas/Fort Worth, East Texas, Lubbock, El Paso, Wichita Falls, and Waco markets. We strive to make sure you have a SPEC’S-tacular shopping experience.
I look forward to seeing you in the stores!
JOHN HOWARD
Houston Metro South Regional Manager
I joined Spec’s in 2009 and have worked up to regional director. I oversee the daily operation of half of my hometown of Houston. From I-10 south to Galveston, and from Baytown to Bay City. I am proud to help bring the best prices, selection, and customer service to all of our guests. It has been a Spec-Tacular journey and I look forward to many more years of serving our communities.
Anthony De Leon
Houston Metro North Regional Manager
I joined the Spec’s family in 2016. I have the honor of humbly serving as the Houston North Regional Manager. My reach extends from Beaumont to Giddings, College Station to Conroe, and everything north of I-10 in Houston. It is my duty to ensure that we deliver extraordinary service to our guests; build a positive team and family spirit for our staff; and have a little fun while we’re at it.
JIM DETMORE
Spirits Buyer
After being in the industry for over 35 years, I have extensive experience and knowledge about scotch, bourbon, gin, vodka, liqueurs, tequila, cognac and brandies. It is my responsibility to seek out new brands and make sure Spec’s has the most varied, extensive selection available.
JUSTIN CODY
Craft and High-End Beer Buyer
I’ve been working with Spec’s for eight years and have enjoyed being a part of the craft beer revival. It is my responsibility to ensure that our stores are kept up-to-date on all the latest beer trends and newest products. I’ve always had an interesting obsession with beer, from collecting vintage cans to commissioning artists to paint bottle portraits of my favorite beers.
JAMES BARLOW
Wine Buyer
I’ve been working with Spec’s for over 15 years and have had the pleasure to watch the company expand. During this time, I’ve become a Certified Wine Educator, Certified Specialist of Spirits, and Certified Sommelier and have had the extreme pleasure of becoming one of 200 Bourgogne Wines Ambassadors in the world. My current role for Spec’s is buyer of Fine Wine America and Saké.
TOM DOBSON
Wine Buyer
I caught the wine bug after studying abroad in France during my time as a Political Science/French student at Texas A&M University. After starting with Spec’s in January 2010 in College Station, I moved to Dallas to facilitate new store openings, then took over French and Italian category management for the company. I am now based at the Midtown location.
PETER GRYSKA
Food Buyer and Category Manager
I have spent my career sourcing food, as a fisherman off Cape Cod to a beef buyer in Texas. At Spec’s, I am thrilled to bring decades of experience searching for the Finest foods to please and entertain our guests. I work with the entire Spec’s team to add to the fun!
JOHN RYDMAN
President/Owner
I joined Spec’s in 1971 with my wife and second-generation family member, Lindy. I had to learn the business from the ground up, and by 1974 we introduced the largest selection of wines in Houston. Our goal is to serve you better in everything we do.
LINDY RYDMAN
Second Generation Family Owner
I’ve been dedicated to serving Spec’s customers ever since I joined my father’s business in 1971. Now with almost 200 stores in Texas, I think my dad would be proud of our efforts… although he might be disappointed that we no longer wear roller skates inside the store like he did!
LISA RYDMAN-LINDSEY
Third Generation
As the granddaughter of Carroll ‘Spec’ Jackson, I am extremely proud to be third generation family. I handle all of Spec’s charitable giving as well as all marketing and advertising. I joined the family business in 1995 and have loved every minute since, especially seeing the good our charity work has done for Texans in need.
MIKE GARCIA
Director of Human Resources
I have been fortunate to work with the Spec’s family since 2009 and it was the best career decision I could have ever made. As a lifelong Houstonian, it is an honor to be part of an iconic Houston-based organization. I am glad to be a champion for our company and our team.
DAWN HILTY
Director of Real Estate
I have worked in retail real estate for several years handling site selection, lease negotiations and asset management. I am very proud to be a part of this amazing family business and I look forward to expanding the Spec’s brand!
STEVE MOORE
Director of Operations
Since joining Spec’s in 2009 it has been my privilege to work for and with amazing people. For me, this has been a full commitment to make our stores the preferred place for Texans (and everybody else!) to shop or work.
STEVE JABOUR
Statewide Director Wholesale Department
A solid history leads to a solid future. I’ve enjoyed being in the liquor industry for over 31 years, from delivery driver to owning my own chain of stores. After joining Spec’s in 2012, I’ve had the opportunity to build and operate a world-class On-Premises operation throughout Texas. Since then, we have remained successful because of our philosophy: be the best partner to our customers.
CESAR DEMARK
Transportation and Distribution
For over 25 years, I have been involved in Facilities Management, Distribution, Strategic Planning and Fleet Operations for Spec’s locations across the state. Since the beginning of my career with Spec’s, we’ve experienced so much growth and success and I could not be more proud to be a part of such an amazing company.
BILL COATES
Wine Consultant
I’ve been a Wine Consultant at Spec’s for over 30 years. My goal is for each customer to leave with what they need, while feeling comfortable, satisfied and happy. I provide a personal shopper experience, and help customers with everything from party planning, wine pairings, choosing the perfect gift, and building and stocking wine cellars.
RYAN HOLDER
Cigar Expert
I’ve been in the cigar industry for over 20 years, traveling and learning about cigars and their production. I started with Spec’s 16 years ago as the District Manager and Tobacco Buyer. I love talking with customers and teaching them about cigars. I also enjoy shooting sporting clays and spending time with my family.