Heather Smelser, VP of Sales at 49th Parallel Coffee
Heather Smelser, VP of Sales at 49th Parallel Coffee
Executive Leadership.
We have seen Heather move up in the corporate world from Regional Manager, to Director of Sales and now to a Vice President of Sales role. All of that on top of being a mom to two little kids. We love being able to feature a woman who has successfully cracked the executive level in leadership which is so hard to do. Read on to find out more about what motivates her, how Covid has affected her team and advice for the next generation of business women.
We are big 49th Parallel fans! What is your position and what does it entail? Can you share with us any plans for 2021 for the brand?
My role at 49th Parallel Coffee Roasters is VP of Sales. I oversee our wholesale and retail business which includes grocery, specialty retail, café and restaurant partners. In this role, I lead our sales team across North America. Our 2021 plans at 49th Parallel are consistent with our brand mission which is to make Specialty Coffee accessible to more people in more ways.
What do you like best about your position?
I love that I get to work with a variety of different people and every day is a new challenge. Our organization is very entrepreneurial which allows me to be hands-on and make quick decisions. I also get to experience our success and growth on a daily basis which is very rewarding. Drinking incredible coffee is also a nice perk!
We love how Project Crop to Cup is focused on creating strong relationships with your producer partners. Can you share with us a bit more about this program or vision?
The coffee industry faces significant challenges related to climate change and artificially low coffee prices that force farmers into a cycle of poverty. 49th Parallel is committed to help bring about positive change through our Direct Trade sourcing philosophy and relationships with our Crop to Cup partners, investing in and growing with them. Through Project Crop to Cup, we strive to offer meaningful solutions to the challenges faced by coffee communities around the world.
What is one successful outcome in your business that came about due to Covid?
Covid caused so many shifts in the way we work and the way we interact with each other, our partners, and our customers. It has helped me in empowering my teams to be more independent and creative, and in many ways has strengthened our communication and relationships.
What inspires and motivates you when things get hard?
Surround yourself with people who will lift you higher. My teams have always been my source for inspiration during challenging times. Helping others achieve more than they thought they could, that's my motivation.
Do you have any advice for the next generation in business?
Appreciate your value and advocate for yourself! Never be afraid to take that risk or have that conversation. Be authentic, believe you can do it, and you will.
What do you wish women did more of to support each other?
The transition to leadership, especially executive leadership, can be especially difficult and lonely for women. I have found so much value in connecting with other women and I have been fortunate enough to have had an amazing network around me throughout my whole career. Always treat other women (and all people) with respect- it's what you will be remembered for years from now.
Pass it forward! Who is one woman who inspired you as you moved forward in your career?
Arianna Huffington