Althea Hogle

Oversee sourcing and purchasing of fresh produce to maintain the Co-op’s high standards for quality, freshness, and local product representation. Collaborate with marketing, operations, and floor teams to ensure optimal merchandising and customer satisfaction.

• Negotiate pricing and contracts with local producers and national distributors, balancing competitive margins with community-based sourcing goals.
• Monitor sales data, inventory levels, and shrink to guide purchasing and reduce waste.
• Lead seasonal resets, in-store displays, and promotional rollouts in collaboration with marketing.
• Strengthen supplier relationships to ensure consistency and reliability in product availability.
• Conduct inventory counts, orders, and real-time communication with managers and team members.
• Work closely with other departments in co-merchandising and marketing efforts.

Founded and operated a small-scale flower farm specializing in diverse, high-quality seasonal blooms. Managed all aspects of production, marketing, and business operations.

• Planned and executed full-cycle production from seed to sale, ensuring quality and profitability.
• Built relationships with local florists, markets, and customers to strengthen regional supply chains.
• Oversaw marketing, sales, and delivery logistics, maintaining high customer satisfaction.
• Managed budgets, crop planning, and scheduling for multiple production cycles.
• Developed brand identity and social media presence to increase local recognition.

Developed and managed educational programs and growing spaces for K–12 students, integrating hands-on learning in sustainable agriculture, energy, forestry, and entrepreneurship.

• Designed and implemented school farm and greenhouse projects supporting experiential learning.
• Created and taught lessons on renewable energy, natural resources, and sustainable food systems.
• Led community outreach and partnership-building efforts to promote sustainability initiatives.
• Organized virtual education events and sustainability workshops during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Collaborated with teachers and administrators to integrate sustainability into district curricula.

Led operations for a farm-to-table catering and event company emphasizing local sourcing and seasonal ingredients.

• Managed event logistics, including staffing, client communication, and onsite execution.
• Recruited, trained, and scheduled employees to meet fluctuating seasonal demand.
• Oversaw purchasing, inventory, and vendor coordination for ingredients and equipment.
• Directed marketing efforts, wrote monthly newsletters, updated website and managed social media to promote brand visibility.
• Maintained strong client relationships and ensured exceptional customer experiences.