For more than two decades, Tiara Coleman has built a career defined by inquisitiveness, service and a profound commitment to helping others achieve their goals. Today, as a raw material specialist on the Product Supply Team in Charlotte, NC, she plays an essential role in assuring Coca-Cola Consolidated’s production operations run seamlessly, coordinating raw material supply, monitoring inventory levels, partnering with vendors, and resolving issues before they impact Teammates or customers. That expertise wasn’t built overnight. Tiara’s journey has taken her through several areas of the business, each experience preparing her for the role she holds today.

From Intern to Leader

Tiara’s journey with Coca-Cola Consolidated began 21 years ago, when she joined the original call center at the Corporate office in Charlotte as an intern. Her first assignment was calling customers about route changes, something she admits she did not fully grasp at the time. However, over time, as she continued making the calls and learning more about route changes, it led to her being offered a full-time role on the final day of her internship. That moment propelled a career filled with growth, changes and new opportunities.

As the Company grew, Tiara transitioned with the call center to a new standalone location where it took on a new name: the Customer Connection Hub. There, she learned to support new customer types and new technologies. “Working with new processes allowed me to meet new Teammates and learn more about the business,” said Tiara. Working closely with Teammates dedicated to Amazon, alternative routes to market and Freestyle drink machines, she built strong relationships and developed skills that would open doors to future roles.

Tiara’s next step was joining the Master Data Management (MDM) team, returning to the Corporate office and spending five years learning from peers who helped shape her development. Following that, Tiara took her interchangeable skills to the Product Supply Team as a Product Network Analyst. After another five‑year chapter with the Product Supply Team, she deepened her understanding of the business, and it sparked her interest in raw materials.

Today, she incorporates all those experiences in her role as a raw material specialist, where she supports the Company’s mission by ensuring the right materials arrive at the right time and comply with the highest quality standards.

Developing a Leadership Mindset

Last year, Tiara completed Coke Consolidated’s Aspiring Leadership Course, an experience that reshaped her perspective on leadership.

“One of the biggest lessons I learned was that leadership is not defined by a title,” she shared. “You can lead by example, support your peers, and help your team succeed by building trust and understanding.”

The program strengthened her communication skills, helped her listen more purposefully and taught her how small actions can positively influence team performance. Since the completion of the course, Tiara has become more intentional about mentoring others, facing challenges directly and promoting a collaborative, supportive workplace.

Finding Fulfillment in Growth

When asked what she enjoys most about working at Coca-Cola Consolidated, Tiara points to the Company’s commitment to growth, innovation, and relationships.

“It’s an environment where you can grow professionally while still feeling connected to the people you work with,” she said.

She finds inspiration in seeing her Teammates rise quickly through the organization’s ranks and by the several professional development tools and programs the Company provides, such as Percipio and Foundations of Leadership, which benefit Teammates and their growth.

“It’s inspiring to see how Coke Consolidated intentionally invests in its Teammates.”

And she feels empowered every day. Whether it’s a Teammate reaching out because someone recommended her, or she’s invited to speak to a department about her role, those moments remind her of the impact she has.

An Environment That Continues To Evolve

Tiara has witnessed the Company’s culture evolve significantly since she joined in 2005. Throughout her career, she has had the opportunity to collaborate with new teams, learn from colleagues and navigate through different career paths.

A vital moment came when mentors motivated her to shadow other departments and attend the Product Supply Experience. That experience helped her discern she wanted to help other Teammates grow. She wanted to serve through coaching, mentoring, teaching and supporting operations.

“Being able to serve your peers opens so many opportunities to teach, learn, coach and network,” she said. “It has been awesome and a great development for my career.”

Serving the Community and Living the Purpose

Volunteering is another one of Tiara’s favorite parts of being a Coke Consolidated Teammate. She sees service as a humbling and grounding experience.

“It’s a reminder that everyone has not walked the same life, and you should extend grace to your Teammates and the community we serve.”

She hopes that every interaction, whether with a Teammate or a community member, leaves a positive impression and reflects the heart of Coke Consolidated.

When asked what she would say to someone considering a career at Coke Consolidated, Tiara doesn’t hesitate:

“Apply and join the family. You will not regret your decision. We are excited and ready to welcome you.”

To learn more about how you can be a part of Coca-Cola Consolidated, visit Work4Coke.com