News
Tuesday, June 30, 2026
People of Sucafina: Meet Temnet Belayneh
Temnet Belayneh joined Sucafina in March 2026 as General Manager for Ethiopia. Bringing more than 13 years of experience across operations, logistics and trade, Temnet has managed thousands of tons of coffee exports over the years but still enjoys cupping like it’s her first day. She tells us more about her journey into coffee, her perspective on Ethiopia’s dynamic coffee sector and the opportunities ahead.
1. Can you tell us about your journey into coffee and what led you to Sucafina?
My coffee journey started over 13 years ago in export operations and logistics, where I learned the fundamentals of moving Ethiopian coffee from origin to global markets. Over time, I progressed into export management and commercial leadership roles, gaining experience across sourcing, trading, operations and customer relationships.
Joining Sucafina was a natural next step, an opportunity to contribute to a company with a strong reputation, global reach and long-term commitment.
2. What has it been like stepping into the General Manager role in Ethiopia?
It’s both exciting and humbling. Ethiopia, as the birthplace of coffee, is one of the most dynamic and important origins in the world. Stepping into the GM role has given me the opportunity to work closely with the local team, suppliers, destination marketers and customers, while helping drive profitability, maximizing margins and contributing strategic ideas to the management team to support sustainable growth and derive operational excellence.
3. What are you most excited to work on in your role?
I’m particularly excited about strengthening our sourcing network, building long-term partnerships, and creating sustainable value across the entire supply chain. I am also excited to trade Ethiopian coffee, tapping into new markets, managing and developing the local team
Furthermore, Sucafina’s strong presence on the ground, and the opportunity to work directly with smallholder farmers through initiatives such as the Lalisaa Farmers Project, is something I truly value. Creating opportunities for farmers to access direct markets, supporting them to improve their livelihoods and building long-term, sustainable relationships are areas I am especially passionate about. I believe these efforts are essential not only for supply chain resilience, but also for driving meaningful and lasting impact across the coffee ecosystem.
4. The Ethiopian coffee sector has seen a lot of change in recent years. What stands out to you today – both in terms of opportunities and challenges?
The growing global demand for high-quality Ethiopian coffee is a major opportunity. At the same time the sector continues to navigate challenges such as market volatility and supply chain complexities.
5. What advice would you give to someone starting out in coffee?
Be curious and spend time learning. Take every opportunity to understand the full coffee value chain and ask questions along the way. Build strong relationships, stay open to new perspectives and never stop learning, as the industry is always evolving.
6. What inspires you, in your work and beyond?
I'm inspired by continuous growth both personal and professional. Seeing teams succeed, and businesses creating a positive impact inspires me every day.
Quick-Fire Questions
7. What's your favorite way to drink coffee right now?
Traditional Ethiopian coffee, freshly roasted and brewed.
8. Morning person or night owl?
Morning person – my best ideas usually come early in the day.
9. What's one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
Despite spending my career in coffee, I still enjoy discovering new coffee profiles and origins whenever I travel.