We recently reached an important milestone: Our five-year anniversary of The PepsiCo Way. A lot has changed in our business (and in the world) since 2019, but the behaviors of The PepsiCo Way are constants that define who we are as a company. Basically, they shape how we work.
“The PepsiCo Way has helped us create a culture that is more cohesive and inclusive, and it has helped guide us as we navigate new challenges around the globe.
Ramon Laguarta
PepsiCo Chairman and CEO
The impact of The PepsiCo Way is greater than you might expect: It is the foundation that sets us on the path to meeting our vision and mission. The behaviors serve as guideposts for how every associate in every location — frontline or corporate, newly hired or seasoned — should approach their work and relationships at PepsiCo.
As Janine Carlse, R&D Senior Product Development Manager for Bakeries, says, “The PepsiCo Way encourages us to be our best selves.”
Here, associates from around the world share how they bring our core behaviors to life.
How we do it
- Constantly innovate to create more value for end consumers.
- Use data and empathy to understand and anticipate the needs of our end consumers.
- Factor the end consumer into every decision we make.
1. Be Consumer Centric
Associate: Janine Carlse, R&D Senior Product Development Manager, Bakeries, AMESA
How I do it: By putting myself in the consumer’s shoes
A few years ago, we identified the rise of a new consumer need, and I had the privilege of contributing to an innovation to address it by introducing a new product to our portfolio. I knew what the first step in the process should be: connecting with consumers to understand what they truly valued so we could unlock what would make the product successful.
I spent time with them, conducted external research and presented prototypes to ensure we developed the right flavor. This approach allowed us to create something that genuinely resonated with our audience.
Why it matters: Being consumer centric helps us build trust and strong relationships. To achieve success, you must be open, actively listen to feedback and experience things from the consumer’s perspective.
How we do it
- Continuously seek new opportunities for growth, efficiencies and accelerating pep+.
- Take calculated risks and encourage others to do the same.
- Think end-to-end; do what is best for PepsiCo as a whole and not just for your own area.
2. Act as Owners
Associate: Vinh Le Quang, Plant Manager, APAC
How I do it: By always working to make us better
As a Plant Manager and a passionate individual, I am always looking for ways to contribute to the success of both our plant and the business. Recently, I was part of a challenging project that involved multiple teams; I felt deeply invested in the project’s success and wanted to go beyond my contribution.
I ensured clear communication among team members, facilitated brainstorming sessions and proactively addressed concerns. These efforts not only contributed to the project success but also helped me build strong cross-department relationships. Eventually, this positioned me as an expert, which has only strengthened our work and our collaboration. Acting as an owner has opened doors for future opportunities for all of us.
Why it matters: Taking ownership is about being proactive and solving problems, even if they’re outside your direct responsibilities. You might see something nobody else does — and that makes it even more important to collaborate with a sense of ownership.
How we do it
- Create a transparent, safe space for different opinions.
- Actively seek feedback, listen and be curious.
- Respectfully challenge decisions when you disagree.
3. Voice Opinions Fearlessly
Associate: Ivonne Salazar, HR Analyst, LATAM
How I do it: By speaking up
I’ve learned that voicing my opinion fearlessly is essential to creating an environment where ideas are valued, regardless of hierarchy or differing views.
Not long ago, during a team meeting I noticed opportunities to improve a project’s plan. Even though most others were ready to proceed with the original approach, I confidently expressed my concerns — supported by data. That led to a constructive debate where we explored the topic even more deeply. By voicing my opinion fearlessly, we were able to revise the process, resulting in greater efficiency and productivity.
Why it matters: Diversity of thought leads to better results — and being heard can help build trust within the team. My experience shows that voicing your opinion can have a positive impact, even in an uncomfortable situation.
How we do it
- Stay focused on what really matters and clarify what we won’t do.
- Simplify the way we work, eliminate bureaucracy and remove obstacles.
- Decide, commit and execute with speed and agility.
4. Focus and Get Things Done Fast
Associate: Gleydson Thomaz, Salesperson, LATAM
How I do it: By anticipating what’s needed
When you focus and get things done fast, you can make decisions and work more efficiently. It’s a mindset, and it helps me stay ahead in my daily routine.
For me, this means reviewing my route the night before to ensure all orders are accounted for. The next day, I reach out to every customer who placed an order to let them know their products are on the way. This approach not only speeds up our process, but benefits both the company and our customers. In fact, our customers are always thankful, and many even share compliments with my manager.
Why it matters: The PepsiCo Way helps me strengthen my relationships so I can deliver consistent results. Staying focused, simplifying tasks and being agile in a fast-changing environment will help you make a quick and meaningful impact.
How we do it
- Hire and promote only the best and foster continuous development for all.
- Build diverse teams and inclusive environments.
- Recognize people based on The PepsiCo Way behaviors, performance and potential.
5. Raise the Bar on Talent and Diversity
Associate: Hayley Oram, Category Supply Chain Director, Snacks, Europe
How I do it: By championing others and helping them reach their full potential
Every day, I listen to and understand what our teams need from me, each other and the company so they can deliver their best, both at work and in life.
Two initiatives in Europe resonate with me in particular. I help facilitate the LIFT program (Leaders Inspiring Female Talent) in Supply Chain. And I serve as a trainer for the FASE framework, which supports balanced lives. Both programs reflect PepsiCo’s commitment to nurturing talent. It’s incredibly motivating to see participants benefit and grow from these programs.
Through these initiatives, I’ve built a diverse network, working with colleagues I might not have met otherwise. This has fostered trust, authenticity and stronger business collaboration, with some relationships turning into lifelong friendships.
Why it matters: It’s important that we champion people and help them reach their full potential. Without our people, we would have no business. Supporting the growth of others can drive individual and business success. By fostering trust and authentic connections, we can align personal development with common business goals.
How we do it
- Always do what is right for PepsiCo, the planet and the communities where we operate.
- Behave in a transparent and authentic way.
- Trust others and empower them to deliver.
6. Act With Integrity
Associate: Dustin Lomaoang, SC, Supply Planner, West Division Supply Chain, PepsiCo Beverages North America (PBNA)
How I do it: By demonstrating honesty, reliability and a strong work ethic
In my first six months in my current role, I took the initiative to help advance some important sustainability initiatives for our plant. Although this is typically handled by other teams, I knew I could contribute and wanted to do what’s right for both our company and our community. So, I developed some tools to help our team quickly manage and calculate key information that would enable all teams to make more effective decisions.
The system proved successful, so I quickly adapted it for other locations. To me, this is what it means to act with integrity: I do my job thoroughly so that other teams can do theirs. The manufacturing, warehouse, transport and sales departments all depend on the results of my work. I always remember that teamwork and collaboration are key to excellence.
Why it matters: Acting with integrity has helped my career by building trust and credibility with colleagues and stakeholders. Because I’ve presented a genuine version of myself and demonstrated honesty, reliability and a strong work ethic, my reputation has grown, and this has led to new opportunities.
How we do it
- Build a positive and supportive, human-centric work environment.
- Create moments of fun and celebration.
- Show appreciation for each other’s contributions, both big and small.
7. Celebrate Success
Associate: Jordyn Restivo, District Sales Leader, PepsiCo Frito-Lay North America (PFNA)
How I do it: By thanking and celebrating my team in ways that make them feel good
I make it a point to celebrate my team’s successes in my daily work because people excel when they feel valued.
Whether it’s thanking my team when they go above and beyond, walking around a store to view a display after it’s been built, or recognizing an individual’s efforts in front of their peers, I ensure that their contributions are acknowledged. I also take the time to understand how each associate prefers to be recognized so they feel genuinely appreciated for their hard work.
Why it matters: Celebrating success strengthens my professional relationships and helps me better understand my team. By recognizing their efforts and encouraging them to reach their full potential, we can foster an environment where everyone feels appreciated, leading to consistently high performance.
Where can The PepsiCo Way take us in the next five years? Find out: Join our team and experience the difference that a positive, powerful culture can make every day.
