Operations, Traceability and Connection: An Interview with Lia Montalvo

At ElevaFinca, we believe in delivering more than high-quality coffee. We deliver trust, transparency and long-term partnership. That begins with the people who ensure our supply chain runs smoothly from origin to export.

In this article, we are pleased to introduce Lia Montalvo, Operations Coordinator at ElevaFinca. Lia plays a key role in maintaining the integrity and reliability of every shipment we deliver to clients around the world.

A Career Built on Operational Expertise and Purpose

Lia began her journey at ElevaFinca as a logistics and traceability assistant, supporting export management and contract follow-up. Early on, she gained a detailed view of the supply chain from the inside.

“Even from a logistical role, I could see the broader impact of my work. That visibility, along with a company culture based on trust and social impact, motivated me to grow within the team.”

She later led critical efforts, such as coordinating export operations during the COVID-19 container shortages, and establishing traceability systems across dry mills in several countries. These moments helped shape her strategic and field-level expertise.

Her Role Today: Precision and Coordination

Lia’s daily routine begins with a review of the coffee market to support client fixations. She then moves on to coordinate shipping schedules, manage contracts, communicate with cooperatives and work closely with dry mill teams in the countries where we operate.

“It’s a dynamic role. Each day requires clear alignment between people, systems and timelines across borders.”

Guaranteeing Quality and Traceability

From dry mill to export, Lia ensures every lot is properly identified, meets agreed quality standards and is backed by accurate documentation. Her role helps maintain full traceability for each container we ship.

“We are responsible not only for moving coffee, but for protecting the value it represents for producers and clients alike.”

What Drives Her Work

When asked what brings her the most pride, Lia is clear:

“We are a bridge between producers and buyers. That means building trust, aligning expectations and delivering value at every step of the supply chain.”

One of her most memorable moments was helping a northern Peru cooperative complete its first fully traceable container. Seeing their reaction as the coffee arrived in Europe confirmed why the work matters.

The Human Effort Behind Every Shipment

“Each container reflects hours of coordination and strategic decisions made with care and responsibility. It’s more than logistics. It’s about protecting an entire chain of effort and purpose.”

If Lia had to choose one word to describe her role, it would be connection. She connects countries, people, priorities and systems, to ensure coffee flows with purpose and consistency.

Her Recommendation to Clients Visiting Origin

Lia would start any visit with a tour of the dry mill, where quality assurance is most visible, followed by a trip to meet producers in the field.

“Understanding post-harvest preparation and meeting the farmers behind the coffee helps strengthen the relationship between buyer and origin.”

A Personal Ritual That Grounds the Work

When asked about her favorite way to enjoy coffee, Lia keeps it simple:

“I like to have a cup in the morning, in silence, while I mentally organize the day. It’s my moment of focus.”

She recommends brewing with a Chemex to fully appreciate the clarity and complexity of the coffee. The method reflects her approach to operations: precise, intentional and respectful of every detail.

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