09/25/2025

How to Deploy a Talent-first Strategy for Your CEO Agenda

Scale successfully by investing in people

Running a coffee company sounds like it should be all about the coffee. And yes, sourcing, roasting and delivering exceptional brews is at the core of our business. But as we prepare to double our footprint with 20 new locations in the next year, I can tell you without hesitation: Talent is the make-or-break ingredient. If we don’t get the right people in place, it won't matter how good the coffee is.

The post-pandemic talent landscape has changed dramatically—especially in hospitality. Expectations around flexibility, career growth, purpose and even basic human connection have evolved. At Klatch Coffee, we have had to evolve with them. That's meant rethinking how we recruit, train, retain and empower our team members at every level—from baristas to managers to our corporate staff.

We have learned a lot through trial and error, and we are still learning. But here are a few of the key lessons that have helped us build a more resilient, energized team as we scale.

Please select this link to read the complete article from Chief Executive.