Tucked inside Coca-Cola Consolidated’s manufacturing facility in Charlotte, NC – Snyder Production Center (SPC) – is the Company’s quality assurance lab. The lab is necessary to ensure Coca-Cola Consolidated products are produced of the finest quality. The teams verify that all measurable attributes of the products are produced within specification, and anything that does not fall within standards is rejected.
There you will also find Jalpa Naik, Sensory Quality Assurance Lead at Coca-Cola Consolidated —a role she proudly calls both a responsibility and a privilege. Jalpa’s journey with the Company began several years ago and has been marked by growth, connection, and an unwavering drive to deliver quality in every bottle and can. She joined as a Lab Tech and then was later promoted to Sensory Lead.
In her position, Jalpa ensures that every sip of a Coca-Cola beverage tastes just right. Her days are filled with sensory evaluations, leading quality panels, collaborating with production teams and troubleshooting flavor consistency. What makes her role truly unique is the combination of science and artistry—balancing technical data with the human senses to guarantee that customers always experience the signature Coca-Cola refreshment.
Since joining Coca-Cola Consolidated eight years ago, Jalpa has found immense joy in both the challenges and triumphs of her work. She especially loves the sense of ownership she’s given over her projects and the opportunity to make a real impact on such an iconic brand. “I get to influence the end product every day,” she shares. “Knowing that millions of people enjoy what we create is incredibly rewarding,” says Jalpa.
Jalpa finds daily inspiration in the Company’s commitment to excellence and innovation. The supportive culture at Coca-Cola Consolidated motivates her to continuously improve, not just as a professional, but as a leader and mentor to others. She’s empowered by leaders who encourage open dialogue, embrace new ideas and invest in Teammates’ growth.
Jalpa describes her approach to leadership and quality assurance with genuine enthusiasm: “I believe that passion and purpose are the foundation of great work. Every bottle represents our commitment to quality, and I am proud to be part of that process.” She further shares, “The best part of my job is knowing that my attention to detail makes a difference in what millions of people taste every day.”
Her career has grown thanks to the numerous development programs and mentorship opportunities provided by the Company. From leadership workshops to cross-functional team projects, Jalpa feels she’s been given a platform to expand her skills and pursue new challenges. “I’m always learning, always growing,” she says.
She also thanks her mentor, Jim Post, Director of Manufacturing Operations – South for Coca-Cola Consolidated for taking the time to help guide and coach her in her career.
Staying connected with her team is a top priority for Jalpa. Whether it’s regular check-ins, team-building activities or volunteering together in the local community, she believes strong relationships are the heart of every successful organization. “We celebrate wins big and small, and we support each other through tough times,” Jalpa notes.
For those considering a career at Coca-Cola Consolidated, Jalpa’s advice is simple: “Be curious, embrace collaboration and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. This is a place where your ideas are valued and where you can truly make a difference.”
Reflecting on her journey so far, Jalpa feels grateful and excited for what’s ahead. With every challenge, she’s more confident in her abilities and more passionate about delivering quality to every customer. For Jalpa Naik, working at Coca-Cola Consolidated isn’t just a job—it’s a meaningful adventure and a chance to inspire others along the way.
Learn how you can be a part of Coca-Cola Consolidated at work4coke.com.
