Career Pivots & Brand Vision with Candace Pappas of Blake’s
What if the next chapter in your career starts with a single message?
I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Candace Pappas, SVP of Marketing at Blake’s Beverage Company and Blake Farms, for one of the most energizing conversations I’ve had on Candid with Candidates.
From bold pivots to carving out your own lane, Candace’s story is packed with real-world insight, refreshing honesty, and the kind of wisdom that stays with you. She’s led through rapid growth, reinvented her path more than once, and isn’t afraid to chase what lights her up—even when the next step isn’t on the org chart.
If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build your own seat at the table—this is the episode for you.
Candace began her career mopping floors as an Assistant General Manager at Argo Tea while still in college—eventually rising to President & COO, leading the company through global expansion and a CPG transformation. After stepping back during a career pause, she found herself drawn back to the industry she loved most: beverage.
When her initial application at Blake’s Beverage didn’t get a reply, she did what most wouldn’t—she sent a direct LinkedIn message that changed everything.
Now, she leads marketing for two fast-growing businesses under the Blake’s umbrella with a clear mission: create signature experiences and get “cans in hands, liquid on lips.”
Whether you’re navigating your own “what’s next” or growing into leadership, this episode is for you.
Episode Highlights
(04:10) What it really means to lead marketing for two growing brands
(09:29) How Candace went from AGM to President & COO of Argo Tea
(13:53) The moment she realized she had to make the first move (and sent the message that changed her career)
(18:41) How to talk about your experience without “dimming your light”
(27:45) The leadership conversation that changed everything
(32:09) Why mid-size, mission-driven companies are Candace’s sweet spot
(40:24) Her candid advice to candidates—and what really stands out in interviews
“Don’t hold yourself back. Be open to new paths—you never know how great things could turn out.”
What You’ll Learn from This Episode
How to confidently approach a career pivot—even after leading a company
Why knowing your “ideal size” organization can make or break your next move
The leadership mindset Candace brings to fast-moving, mid-sized teams
How to overcome impostor syndrome during a pause or transition
The importance of curiosity in interviews (and the questions that stand out)
How to build a marketing strategy that connects to real human moments
Connect with Candace
Candace Pappas on LinkedIn
Stay Candid
Candid with Candidates shares real stories from inside major organizations—stories that don’t make it into the slide decks or LinkedIn highlight reels. Follow along for conversations that inform, encourage, and help you navigate your own path to leadership.
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