Jonathan was born and raised in a small town in Northern Maine where his family was in the restaurant business. He studied the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management and also later attended graduate school. With an extensive background with Darden Restaurants and Walt Disney World Jonathan was led to the premium cigar world through a passion that was sparked through friends early in his college years in Orlando, Florida. Carney joined La Flor Dominicana in 2011 as the Northeast Area Sales Manager covering New York and New England until 2013 when he was promoted to Vice President of Sales, the position which he currently holds. At the time of promotion Jonathan was one of the youngest executives in the premium cigar industry and he currently serves on the Advisory Board for the Tobacconist Association of America. His passions are premium cigars, wine, and the culinary arts which is expressed through his brand “Hacking Gourmet.” Jonathan co-created the Smokin’ Tabacco show in 2020. Experienced sales executive and leader with a proven history of success and growth. Highly skilled in team building, employee retention, marketing management, sales, negotiation, food & beverage, budgeting and the sale of premium products.