As operations manager at Holland Farms, Carla Shepherd is constantly busy making sure the day-to-day operations of the bakery and deli run smoothly. For the past four years, Carla has served in this capacity at Holland Farms – a career choice that makes her look forward to coming to the office every day.

Carla has been at Holland Farms for 11 years, beginning her career as a part-time bookkeeper for the company. When the company realigned in 2007, she was asked to come on board full-time as the operations manager. “I oversee the day-to-day general operations of the business,” Carla said. “My job entails a lot of human resource work, including new hire orientations.” Carla added that additionally, she works with vendors and handles some aspects of customer service as well. “I try to help wherever I’m needed.”

Carla said that Holland Farms is a great place to work for a combination of reasons. “I enjoy the customers and the staff here at Holland Farms,” Carla said. “The behind-the-scenes people are amazing – I’m always in awe of the amount of product that we make here each and every day.” Carla also said that because Holland Farms produces high-quality goods, an unhappy customer is a rarity. “The consistency of the product we sell keeps customers happy – and coming back for more,” she said.

While most people might consider the sweet offerings at Holland Farms to be the most delectable, Carla simply cannot get enough of the coffee. “I just absolutely love our coffee,” Carla said. “On my days off, I find myself wanting to come in for some. I just can’t wait to get that first cup of coffee after a couple of days off.” Holland Farms co-owner Suzanne Harrington knows how much Carla loves Holland Farms coffee – “I was up north at our camp on a week’s vacation, and Suzanne showed up with some Holland Farms coffee for me – she knew how much I’d be missing it!”

When she isn’t at work, you’ll find Carla spending time with her husband of 23 years and her son, who is a senior in high school. A life-long resident of Oneida County, Carla also enjoys reading and travel, and has a special place in her heart for children and animals.