On July 13, when Baltimore-based spice brand McCormick announced its search for a Director of Taco Relations, fans of the handheld delicacy were thrilled and enticed. In about a week’s time, more than 5,000 hopefuls had thrown their hats into the ring. And today—in honor of National Taco Day—the company unveiled its pick to fill what many foodies see as a dream role.
With decades of experience under her belt (the El Paso, Texas-born content creator grew up making tacos with her mom and grandma,) Jo Luna brings a wealth of tasty expertise to the McCormick team.
“Food is something everyone can relate with, but [these are] tacos, [which] I’m so connected to through my culture,” Luna said in a video released by McCormick. “I’m excited to represent the Latino population and share my love for tacos with the world.”
The YouTuber and travel blogger hasn’t wasted time making good on her word.
To mark her first official day on the job—and celebrate National Taco Day in style—Luna hit the road with the McCormick team to help give away the brand’s beloved Fiesta Tacos for free in New York City.
Before Luna’s four-month stint as Director of Taco Relations expires, she plans to work directly with McCormick’s brand team to curate a batch of trendy new tutorials and bites. A recent survey conducted by McCormick found that 84 percent of Americans make tacos at home at least once per month, and just over half are made on Tuesdays.
“We all know Taco Tuesday is a thing, so we have tons of content coming out around Taco Tuesday and how to get people excited for taco nights,” Luna said in the video, adding that she “can’t wait” to get into McCormick’s Hunt Valley test kitchens to start toying with different varieties. (She’s already experimented with an at-home birria taco recipe.)
“I’m so excited for this role,” she said. “A huge part of why I love doing what I do is the way that food can bring people together…This is literally the dream job.”