Our Team
OUR TEAM
Markham & Fitz is built on the mission to celebrate people, creativity and craft. We honor the invisible woven networks of people and plants that sustains our lives and livelihoods. We believe that truly good things take time, intention and an unrelenting commitment to a more just world.
Craft chocolate is a labor of love... and it requires a lot of real human people to make this dream possible. We are grateful to be made up of a team full of passionate people who are inspired by craft and a vision that's bigger than ourselves.
Lauren Blanco
Co-Founder & CEO
lauren@markhamandfitz.com
Lauren spent 5 years working in grassroots economic development in war-torn countries where she witnessed business as a force of good and encountered her first cacao farm. Driven to make a positive difference in the cacao supply chain, she leads the company's strategy, creative direction, and product development.
Anders Olsen
Production Manager + Head of R&D
production@markhamandfitz.com
From fishmonger to Mennonite cheesemaker to a college graduate in biochemistry, Anders' analytical food science approach to chocolate making and his keen palate support his development of both high quality chocolate and reliable management and inventory systems.
Will Cichy
Fulfillment Manager
fulfillment@markhamandfitz.com
Our newest team member, Will, specializes in expert customer service and shipping management.
Michael Day
Retail Operations Manager + Sales
michael@markhamandfitz.com
Michael cultivates a memorable customer experience at our brick & mortar in Bentonville, and helps manage our wholesale clients across the US. He also leads our tour program and joyfully shares his passion for chocolate & customer education everywhere he goes.
Charisse Anh
Pastry Chef
pastry@markhamandfitz.com
Charisse perfects our desserts and confections at the 8th Street Market from cake and tarts to cookies and creme brulee. She pours meticulous skill and speed into her pastry arts on a daily basis. If you've liked any of our desserts, she's the one to thank.