Meet the Team: Kayla Smith, Food Safety & Quality Assurance Manager

Want to know what it’s like to work for Peet’s? Need of a big mugful of inspo? You’re in the right place. Meet one of our team members who inspires us with their dedication and passion while getting a behind-the-scenes look at day-to-day life at Peet’s. Ready? Let’s go.

FIRST THINGS FIRST
My name is Kayla Smith, I was born and raised on the east coast, and I currently live in Oakland. I am the Food Safety & Quality Assurance Manager for the Peet’s Alameda roasting plant. In my role I manage quality assurance (QA) and coffee quality. I am currently working on enhancing our food safety and quality management systems.

HOW DOES YOUR BACKGROUND FIT IN AT PEET’S?
My extensive biology and microbiology background—combined with my passion for food—drives the pride I take in my work. I bring a detail-oriented approach that’s critical in QA. I collaborate with a highly diverse team with experience across food production and quality assurance.

I chose Peet’s because a lot of memories or even small moments can made with a cup of coffee, a lot of conversations happen over a cup of coffee. It’s that small detail that can have a big impact. I always like to start my mornings with the perfect cup of coffee: dark roast, steamed milk with cinnamon, and a little bit of sweetness. It’s a good start to the day.

OTHER THAN THE COFFEE, WHAT DRIVES YOU?
What I find the most rewarding about my work is seeing progress in the food safety culture at Peet’s that I helped develop.

IF YOU COULD SHARE ONE TIP…
Being called a master of your craft puts a limit on growth, being a mentor of your craft means being met with openness, curiosity, and unlimited growth. At Peet’s if you go in with a mentoring mindset you will go far.

WHAT’S YOUR TREAT-YOURSELF ORDER RIGHT NOW?
Coconut Black Tie or a Pistachio Rose Latte.

LET’S END ON A FUN FACT
I used to box in high school and coached in college. I don’t train as much now, but still love to work out on the heavy bag!

FIND YOUR PASSION WITH US! 
www.peets.com/pages/careers
Peetniks are passionate and authentic, learners and doers, committed to the pursuit of better. Check out our open opportunities and apply today.