Key Results
- 5 Key hires across finance, human resources, operations, supply chain, and R&D
- 18 days to source winning candidates
- 21 days to present the winning candidate
- 46 days from opening to closure of the search
Immediate Impact
- 55%+ ACV in the US, leading to 3.5X growth
- 5X annual sales revenue since partnering with Protis Global
Originally known as Mother Beverage, poppi began as an innovative force in the functional beverage market. It offers a prebiotic soda that combines taste with health benefits, primarily through apple cider vinegar.
The company's evolution from a small-scale operation to a retail powerhouse was catalyzed by a strategic Shark Tank partnership and rebranding, moving from Mother Beverage in glass bottles to the vibrant, canned poppi brand.
The journey saw an initial investment from friends and family, leading to a transformative $400,000 deal with Rohan Oza on Shark Tank in 2018, propelling Poppi into a period of rapid expansion and brand evolution.
Strategic Partnership Fuels Growth
The foundation of poppi's success lies in its commitment to combining health benefits with great taste, inspired by Allison Ellsworth's personal health journey. Their Shark Tank appearance and subsequent rebranding under Rohan Oza's guidance marked a pivotal moment, driving significant online sales and broadening market presence. Before working with us, poppi was already making waves in the functional beverage space, with sales reaching up to $500,000 by their Shark Tank pitch.
Despite early success, sustaining and accelerating growth meant strategically enhancing the team. We partnered with Poppi to strengthen their core departments and maximize two major funding rounds. The challenge was navigating a booming market while preserving the brand’s innovative spirit.
One key department, previously led by an exceptional executive hire, now needed a refresh as business demands evolved. This led to the need for three critical hires—individuals with the skills and speed to thrive in poppi’s fast-paced, high-growth environment.
Our Targeted Executive Search Strategy
In response, Protis Global launched a targeted executive search, focusing on key roles crucial to poppi's next growth phase:
- Controller
- Director of People
- SVP of Operations
- VP of Product, Technology & Innovation
- FP&A Manager
Protis Global’s efficient process averaged 18 days to source, 21 days to present the winning candidate, and 46 days from opening to closure of the search, demonstrating our ability to quickly match poppi with candidates that not only met but exceeded expectations.
The Impact of Top Talent
Our strategic partnership marked a significant turning point. The revamp included hiring a key executive for the human resources department, who not only ensured proper processes but was also promoted within the first 12 months, becoming one of the most senior leaders in the organization.
Furthermore, we partnered on hiring the number two position in the operations group, bringing in a seasoned professional from the consumer-packaged goods beverage space. This individual helped transform poppi's organization operationally, bringing route-to-market comprehension and efficiencies across the board.
Key Metrics
- Interviewed an average of 3.6 candidates per position
- Talent was found in less than three weeks
- The entire hiring process averaged 45.8 days from green light to offer acceptance by the candidates
Conclusion
The company's rise as a dominant player in the functional beverage market underscores the importance of strategic hiring and brand development. Through its collaboration with Protis Global, poppi has fueled sustained growth, positioning itself for ongoing success. By offering innovative products and a compelling brand narrative, poppi is securing its place as a market leader. As the functional beverage industry expands, poppi’s forward-looking strategy and key partnerships serve as a model for growth and innovation.