Leading With Intention in a Rapidly Evolving Industry

Amber Poupore

The food and hospitality industry is often driven by trends, speed, and constant expansion. Many brands grow quickly but struggle to sustain quality, culture, and trust. True leadership in this space requires patience, structure, and a long-term perspective.

Amber Poupore exemplifies this approach. With more than two decades of experience, she has built a career grounded in discipline, clarity, and intention. As the Founder and Chief Operator of Cacao Tree Cafe, Amber has shown that plant-based dining can scale sustainably when leadership prioritizes systems over trends.

For Amber, leadership is not about moving fast. It is about building something people can trust over time.

Experience That Shaped a Practical Leader

Amber’s leadership foundation was built through hands-on experience. Early in her career, she worked across kitchen operations, service, and management. These roles gave her a deep understanding of the realities of running food businesses and shaped a leadership style rooted in execution and accountability.

A personal shift toward plant-strong nutrition later changed her perspective. She began to see food not just as a product, but as a tool for energy, focus, and long-term well-being. This realization reshaped her mission and gave her work deeper purpose.

When Cacao Tree Cafe opened in 2010, the plant-based market was still emerging. Rather than chasing rapid expansion, Amber focused on consistency, education, and earning guest trust.

A Disciplined Framework for Sustainable Growth

Amber leads with a clear, measurable framework. Every decision is evaluated against three core priorities:

• Ingredient integrity, with respect for sourcing and seasonality

• Operational systems designed for repeatability and clarity

• A guest experience that feels generous, welcoming, and inclusive

In addition, each offering must meet three standards:

• Supports well-being

• Respects resources

• Delivers genuine satisfaction

This disciplined approach allows innovation without instability and creativity without compromise.

Sustainability Through Systems and People

Under Amber’s leadership, sustainability extends beyond the menu. Operations are designed to reduce waste, pricing reflects fairness, and team development is treated as a strategic investment.

Amber strongly believes that a business cannot last unless the people inside it are supported. This philosophy has helped build loyal teams and consistent guest experiences.

Her participation in the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program further strengthened her financial discipline and long-term planning skills, aligning mission with measurable growth.

Looking forward, Amber sees the industry shifting toward whole-food nourishment, functional beverages, and locally rooted concepts built on trust. Her upcoming venture, Herban Grounds, reflects this next evolution.

Amber Poupore’s leadership proves that intention, discipline, and care create businesses designed to endure.