Anna began her journey with Dillanos years ago as a Sales Representative. She took a short period of time away from Dillanos and worked with a broker in the coffee industry, gaining hands-on experience in distribution that helped shape her next chapter. She returned in March 2015 as Director of Brand Development for Barista 22, where she leads product development, marketing, branding, recipe creation, distributor relationships, and overall sales growth.
Her favorite Barista 22 flavors are also favorites of many. The Lavender and Coconut syrups, and the White Chocolate powder. (As the break room restocker, I can corroborate this as these products are on the list of those that run out the fastest!)
The core value that resonates most with Anna is #9: PROTECT OUR COMMITMENT TO QUALITY.
“I take great pride in our product line and the role it plays in helping coffee businesses thrive. I stand behind the fact that our beverage-building products truly shine when paired with the coffee you use. My goal is to ensure that every product we offer is something our customers can trust and rely on to support their success. For us, quality isn’t just a standard—it’s something we strive for and, at the end of the day, it’s all about giving coffee businesses something they can trust to keep their customers coming back for more.”
Anna’s story offers a clear look at the depth of her experience in the industry. When asked about her favorite memory, she shared:
"There are so many memorable moments over the last 20 years and I feel incredibly fortunate that my job has included so much travel, taking me to places literally around the world I never would have imagined ever visiting! Although most of my favorite memories included lots of laughter and wonderful conversations…one of the most pivotal moments was having the opportunity in 2010 to go to Costa Rica and visit one of the farms we worked with and actually see where coffee is grown and processed. I remember pulling up in the van and seeing a drying patio with coffee seeds covering it and it hit me with such an emotion that, after 13 years in this amazing industry, it felt like my experience with coffee had come full circle.”
It’s easy to see that Anna’s perspective is both thoughtful and genuine. The relationships she’s built over the past 20 years mean a lot to her—and it shows. Within minutes of meeting her, her outgoing, friendly personality makes you feel like an instant friend. When asked what she values most about her time at Dillanos and Barista 22, her answer came naturally: the people she works with and for.
“We’re not just coworkers—we’re living life together, whether in the office, traveling across the country or even around the world visiting customers or exhibiting at trade shows. Some of my closest friendships have been built through this company and our families have become just as connected.”
Another thing Anna is grateful for is knowing that she is trusted in her role to lead daily operations and brand growth. She is proud of her work, and rightfully so, and she can’t wait to see what’s ahead.
“Anna and I go all the way back to high school, and getting to work alongside her at Dillanos for the last 20 years has been incredibly special. She’s an OG in every sense—loyal, hardworking, and someone who takes real pride in this company. Anna cares deeply about Dillanos and represents our brands with such authenticity that people across the industry know and respect her. She’s the kind of teammate you can always rely on, and she brings such positivity and encouragement to everyone around her. Looking back on where Dillanos started and where we are today, I feel lucky that we’ve been able to share that journey together.” - Carissa
Anna deserves recognition—and some well-earned time away. She and her husband are celebrating 25 years of marriage (congratulations!), and are planning a special trip to celebrate the milestone together.
Anna may have a strong, committed work ethic, but she also has a welcoming heart and is a wonderful co-worker, friend and wife. Whether she’s working hard, laughing with friends, or tearing up at magic tricks (if you know you know), she is unmistakably Anna! Thank you for everything you’ve done here at Dillanos, and Happy 20 Years!
