Michael Haft

Founder and CEO

Michael Haft is the Founder and CEO of Compass Coffee, a rapidly growing specialty coffee company based in Washington, D.C. With over a decade of experience in the coffee industry and a proven track record of entrepreneurial success, Haft is a respected leader and innovator known for his expertise in coffee roasting, retail operations, and building high-performing teams.

Professional Overview

As the Founder and CEO of Compass Coffee, Haft is responsible for setting the strategic vision for the company, overseeing all day-to-day operations, and driving the continued expansion of the Compass Coffee brand. He leverages his deep industry knowledge and entrepreneurial acumen to guide the company's growth, foster a culture of excellence, and deliver an exceptional customer experience.

Experience Summary

Current Role

Haft founded Compass Coffee in 2013 and has since grown the company to 10 retail locations across the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Under his leadership, Compass Coffee has become a beloved local brand known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and community engagement. As CEO, Haft is responsible for overseeing all business functions, including product development, supply chain management, marketing, and financial strategy. He has led the company to consistent year-over-year revenue growth and profitability, solidifying Compass Coffee's position as a market leader in the specialty coffee industry.

Career Progression

Prior to founding Compass Coffee, Haft was the author of the acclaimed book "Perfect Coffee at Home," which established him as a coffee industry thought leader. He also served as a Captain in the United States Marine Corps, where he gained valuable leadership experience and developed a deep appreciation for the importance of operational excellence and teamwork.

Academic Background

Haft holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the United States Naval Academy, where he graduated with distinction and was recognized for his academic excellence.

Areas of Expertise

Haft's areas of expertise include coffee roasting, retail operations, brand development, supply chain management, and strategic planning. He is also a skilled communicator and collaborator, with a proven ability to build high-performing teams and forge strong partnerships within the industry.

Professional Impact

Under Haft's leadership, Compass Coffee has become a beloved local institution, known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and community engagement. The company has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including being named one of the "Best Coffee Shops in America" by Food & Wine magazine. Haft's industry contributions extend beyond Compass Coffee, as he serves on the board of Union Kitchen, a renowned food incubator, and provides strategic advisory services to Prefect, a leading supply chain optimization platform.

Conclusion

With his unwavering commitment to excellence, innovative mindset, and strong leadership skills, Michael Haft is poised to continue driving the growth and success of Compass Coffee. As the company expands its footprint and explores new opportunities, Haft's industry expertise and entrepreneurial vision will be instrumental in shaping the future of the specialty coffee industry.