JULIA Birnn Fields
Company: Birnn Chocolates of Vermont
Title: Owner
Age: 35
Career Highlights: In 2016 my husband and I bought but the family business from my dad and uncle making us a 4th generation company. My family was thrilled that we chose this path, as the alternative was selling the business to an unknown entity, risking the 
jobs of our dedicated staff who have made the company what it is today. You see, my uncle doesn’t have kids and I’m an only child... so, no pressure!
Community Involvement: I’ve chosen to live and run a business in Vermont because of its community. I focus my efforts on causes near and dear to me, my family, and our employees. We’ve worked closely with the Refugee Resettlement Program over the years to ensure that Birnn is an incredible place to work for new Americans. We provide paid English classes to all of our ELL employees as part of their workweek, and these efforts at work have encouraged new Americans to be more active participates in our community as well. We donate chocolate to a large variety of charities throughout the year and volunteer locally for causes that benefit Vermonters.
What motivated you to live and work in Vermont? My family moved here when I was six years old, and growing up in Vermont always made me want to raise a family here. One of the tangible benefits of owning a business in Vermont is that the state legislature is so accessible. You can truly feel that your voice is being heard.
Favorite part of your job? Working with my husband to provide a stable, safe, and fun work environment for our employees. I also love traveling to various trade shows throughout the year and meeting our existing customers while introducing ourselves to new prospects. And of course, chocolate all day every day :)
What is the best career advice you have received? Be honest, pay what is owed, and become actively involved with industry organizations.
Tell us something fun about yourself that few people know: My nose was pierced in India 15 years ago with a sharpened piece of gold.
What three words best describe you: Adventurous. Fun. Loyal.
Favorite Vermont escape: Camping on the Green River Reservoir - the sites are boat access only and motorized boats are not allowed. This spot is the definition of a pristine, serene getaway. Plus, it is absolute heaven on earth for our dog, Quoia.
Favorite downtime activity: Camping or snuggled up by the wood-stove.
Favorite Social Media and why: Instagram - simple, fun, and photo-centric.
Where do you see Person you would most like to share a Vermont beverage with: I’d love to sit down with my great grandfather and learn firsthand what the chocolate industry was like in the early to mid-1900s. I’d like to hear his stories about the families and companies we’re still doing business with over 100 years later.
If you had unlimited access to funds, which cause(s) would you support: I would support immigration rights and find a cure for A.L.S. I would also give our employees an incredible week-long work retreat somewhere warm and far away from Vermont.
Where do you see yourself professionally in the next 5-10 years? Over the next 5-10 years, I would like to continue the trajectory of our business and providing community members with a great place to work in Vermont.
