From Concert Halls to Creamy Confections: Annabelle Traves’ Sweet New Role
How did Annabelle Traves land the sweetest job on the planet? Let’s just say she pulled some strings.
The concert violinist, renowned for solo performances at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall and the Sydney Opera House, has recently been named Dr. Bombay’s first International Ice Cream Taster. This unique position emerged from a global search initiated by Snoop Dogg’s ice cream brand in August, offering an enticing salary of $10,000 a month. The opportunity attracted an overwhelming response, with over 350,000 applicants from more than 130 countries applying through Deel, the HR and payroll platform that managed the recruitment process.
A Harmonious Application Process
Traves, originally from Australia and now based in Dubai, secured a three-month contract where she will assist Dr. Bombay in expanding into new markets. Her responsibilities include brainstorming innovative flavors and even developing a special Deel-themed ice cream. In an interview with Entrepreneur, Traves shared insights into how her background as a musician helped her stand out during the rigorous selection process.
“I decided to play to my strengths,” Traves explained. While many candidates came from dairy farming or had extensive dairy research experience, she leveraged her musical talents instead. Her application video featured her plucking one of Snoop Dogg’s famous melodies on her violin. After making it to the top 15, she doubled down by performing her own cover of “Young, Wild & Free.” This creative approach, blending her musical expertise with the essence of the brand, evidently resonated with Snoop and the hiring team.
Why Trade the Stage for Scoops?
Despite a flourishing career as a violinist, Traves was drawn to this opportunity for several reasons. “The timing was perfect,” she noted, having just concluded a world tour with André Rieu and finally enjoying a more flexible schedule. She acknowledged the universal appeal of ice cream and expressed enthusiasm about working alongside Snoop Dogg, whose music she admires across genres. The role offered a rare chance to connect with him on a creative level beyond music.
A Taste for Novelty
When it comes to evaluating ice cream flavors, Traves looks for one word: novelty. She seeks flavors that offer new and unexpected experiences rather than familiar staples like vanilla. Drawing on insights from Dr. Maya, the flavor developer at Dr. Bombay, Traves learned that ice cream flavors evolve over time, revealing different notes seconds after the initial taste — a complexity often associated with wine tasting but relatively new to the ice cream world.
Moreover, Traves appreciates the nostalgic element of the Dr. Bombay brand. Classic flavors like Sherbet evoke memories of the 1990s, while Peanut Butter Jelly Time taps into beloved childhood snacks. She envisions future flavors inspired by popular candies and afternoon treats from that era, aiming to blend the past’s comforting tastes with innovative twists.
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