Billy Dessel  

Rhode Island entrepreneur Bill Dessel has built businesses that reflect the state’s work ethic and creativity. A lawyer by training, he helped grow The Cookson Group into a $4 billion multinational before leading Cowan Plastics and American Assembly, earning Rhode Island Manufacturer of the Year honors. He later guided FatHead LLC through national licensing deals, opened the award-winning bistro Billy’s and co-founded KEEL Vodka, the country’s first premium light spirit. After KEEL’s 2024 acquisition by Newport Craft Brewing + Distilling Co., Dessel continues to champion innovation and small-business growth across Rhode Island.