Program Manager, Commercial Operations

OLIPOP, Inc. is a beverage company dedicated to producing a healthier alternative to traditional sodas. Founded in 2018 by Ben Goodwin and David Lester, the company has emerged as a significant player in the functional beverage market. The core mission of OLIPOP is to offer consumers a delicious, sparkling tonic that supports digestive health and the microbiome without the high sugar content typically found in soft drinks. Each can of OLIPOP contains prebiotics, plant-based fibers, and botanicals, with only 2-5 grams of sugar. The company's name itself is a portmanteau of 'oligosaccharide,' a type of prebiotic fiber, and 'pop,' a common term for soda, reflecting its scientific and accessible approach.

The development of OLIPOP was born from the founders' previous experiences in the beverage industry and a personal commitment to health and wellness. After a prior venture with a probiotic soda called Obi, Goodwin and Lester identified a market need for a beverage that was both enjoyable and beneficial. They invested their own capital to launch OLIPOP, which initially debuted in three flavors. The brand quickly gained traction, expanding its distribution from a handful of stores in Northern California to over 25,000 retail locations nationwide, including major retailers like Target, Walmart, Whole Foods, and Kroger. This rapid growth has been supported by several successful funding rounds, attracting investment from notable figures and venture capital firms. OLIPOP's product line has expanded to include a wide variety of classic and innovative soda flavors, all while maintaining its commitment to being non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly. The company operates as a fully remote organization, fostering a collaborative and mission-driven culture among its employees.