A Reading Story Rooted in Family and Hard Work
I come from an Italian immigrant family with deep ties to the sea—my roots trace back to hardworking fishermen who built a legacy in the seafood industry.
I grew up in Medford until age 15, when my parents, Salvatore and Helen Bramante, moved our family—including my sisters Helene and Suzette—to Reading in 1988. I proudly graduated from Reading Memorial High School (RMHS) in 1991.
In 2001, my wife Heather MacLeod Bramante and I built our home on Haverhill Street, where we’ve raised our four children: Emma, Salvy, AJ, and Juliette. All of them attended the Reading Public Schools system, and two are currently thriving at RMHS. Family is at the heart of everything I do.
Here is a glimpse of the family life that’s kept me grounded in our community:
Proven Leadership in Business and Operations
My professional journey reflects the same grit and fiscal responsibility I’ll bring to the Select Board. I worked alongside my father and family on commercial fishing boats until age 21, then launched my own wholesale seafood company and a separate restaurant, successfully running both until I was 40.
I later served as COO of Red’s Best (2010–2019), growing the business from $1.5 million to $45 million in revenue through smart management and cost control. I went on to become Vice President of Operations at Stavis Seafoods (handling $250 million in revenue) and Director of Operations at Boston Sword & Tuna ($350 million in revenue). In every role, I’ve controlled budgets, cut costs efficiently, met ambitious targets, and built strong teams.
These experiences have honed my ability to analyze finances, make tough decisions, and deliver results—skills our town needs to manage budgets wisely, support essential services, and keep Reading a great place to live.
Committed Community Service in Reading
I’m already deeply involved in serving our town:
- Currently in my first 3-year term on the Reading Board of Health, where I apply my industry expertise to protect public health and safety.
- Serving my second 3-year term as a Town Meeting member.
- In 2022, I previously ran as a candidate for the RMLD (Reading Municipal Light Department) Board of Commissioners.
- Elected Chair of Precinct 1 Town Meeting for all four years I've served—leading with fairness and collaboration.
- I've also given back through the schools—volunteering with set building for our kids' plays and supporting the RPS community every step of the way.
Endurance, Determination, and Love for Our Community
Beyond work and service, I’ve always pushed myself—running 3 marathons, competing in Reach the Beach for 5 straight years, tackling the Mount Washington Road Race twice, and finishing hundreds of other races. That same perseverance drives me to serve Reading with energy and resolve.
Listening First, Leading Together
Reading is a special place—strong schools, vibrant neighborhoods, and a close-knit community. As we face important decisions on budgets, infrastructure, and growth, I’ll bring fiscal discipline, real-world experience, and a deep commitment to our families and future.
I’m running for Select Board to listen first, then lead together—ensuring every voice is heard as we keep Reading moving forward.
I’d be honored to earn your support in the upcoming election. Stay tuned for more details on events, how to connect, and ways to get involved.
Together, let’s keep Reading strong!