What drew you to the Creamery?
I now live in Dalton with my wife and three kids, and after the completion of the expansion project I decided it was a good time to step back from the Berkshire Co-op and try something new. When the Creamery transitioned from private ownership to a co-op in 2012, I provided some technical assistance in store layout and merchandising. While I am still getting to know the Creamery as a business and a hub of community in the Hilltowns, I see a lot of opportunities to stabilize the operations, re-engage member-owners and customers, and re-build the morale of the staff and community. I look forward to meeting everyone over the next few weeks and diving into the tasks set out in the Board's Action Plan.
What are your biggest priorities in your first few months as IGM?
There is a lot of work to do to manage our current debt load and bring our financial projections and reporting up to date. If we don't have cash flow, than we can't keep the store running. I also want to do everything I can to stabilize the operations of the Creamery by offering additional training and support to our prepared foods team, reevaluating our product mix and merchandising plan, and revamping our administrative systems to improve HR, marketing, and community outreach. With the full support of staff and the community, I think there is a lot we can accomplish in a relatively short period of time.
What do you enjoy doing outside of the co-op world?
I love to cook and garden, and spend quality time with my family. I also play the bass in local bands including the Misty Blues.
What is the last movie you watched?
Well, right now I am completely hooked on Parks and Recreation.
What's your sign?
Aquarius
What does cooperation mean to you?
Cooperation is about working together toward the common good. It is a mutual meeting of individual and collective needs. I truly believe that caring for others is the most basic thing there is.
