Rachel Malmstadt - Nominated by the Board of Directors

Director of Warehousing and Inventory

Why do you want to be on the Outpost Co-op Board of Directors?

Serving on the Outpost Co-op Board of Directors would be an incredible opportunity to contribute to the mission of bringing sustainable, ethical, and community-centered food options to a wider audience. With a background in understanding supply chains, quality assurance, and Lean principles, I see a lot of potential to help streamline operations and elevate Outpost’s standing as a leader in natural foods.

On a more personal level, I believe in the cooperative model and the values it stands for: community ownership, member participation, and a commitment to sustainable practices. It resonates with my vision of not only building a strong community of consumers but fostering a place where owners can influence the future of their food options.

This position would allow me to combine my professional skills and personal passion for natural, ethically sourced products to serve the community.

What professional skills do you bring to a Board position of a $50 million business?

I bring a well-rounded set of professional skills that would benefit the Outpost Co-op Board, particularly in areas of operational efficiency, quality management, and strategic planning. My experience in supply chain management and Lean principles, such as 5S and Poka-Yoke, has given me practical skills in identifying inefficiencies, reducing waste, and fostering continuous improvement. In previous roles, I’ve worked with teams to streamline processes and improve quality control, which is critical for a cooperative focused on delivering high-quality natural products.

Academically, I’ve received training in both business and operations management, where I studied financial analysis, budgeting, and strategic planning, which are essential for contributing to high-level board decisions. Additionally, my current experience with handling documentation and coordinating shipping logistics has deepened my understanding of how inventory and product flow directly impact financial health and customer satisfaction.

I’m also experienced in team collaboration and communication, balancing respect for others’ perspectives with a commitment to transparency and integrity. This skill is essential on a board where decisions are collaborative and directly impact stakeholders. My combined experience in quality assurance, Lean methodology, and strategic management would be an asset to Outpost’s Board as we work together to achieve both operational excellence and community goals.

Please describe how you would contribute to the diversity, equity, and inclusivity of the board.

I would contribute to diversity, equity, and inclusivity on the Outpost Co-op Board by bringing both a unique perspective shaped by my professional experiences and a commitment to actively promoting inclusive practices. I’ve seen firsthand how diversity and equitable representation positively impact decision-making and have actively advocated for these values in my work. Recognizing that diverse voices lead to more holistic and innovative solutions, I would be proactive in ensuring that our decisions consider the diverse needs of our owners, employees, and broader community.

In addition to embracing diversity in ideas, I am also deeply committed to equity and accessibility. From my experience in supply chain management and quality assurance, I understand the importance of reaching underserved communities and reducing barriers to participation. On the board, I would advocate for policies and programs that make Outpost’s offerings more accessible to all community members, regardless of background or income. Furthermore, I would work collaboratively with other board members to ensure that our cooperative culture is one where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to contribute.

Inclusivity isn’t just about representation but about creating a space where diverse perspectives actively shape outcomes. I would approach this role with an open mind and a genuine respect for differing experiences and viewpoints, and I’m ready to learn and grow alongside my colleagues to foster an inclusive environment that reflects Outpost’s commitment to social responsibility.

Describe your prior involvement with community organizations and/or cooperatives.

I have been actively involved in various community organizations, which has helped me develop a deep appreciation for grassroots initiatives and cooperative principles. In previous roles, I’ve volunteered with local food drives and sustainability initiatives focused on increasing access to healthy, ethically sourced food options for low-income families. This involvement gave me firsthand experience in understanding the impact that food cooperatives like Outpost can have on a community, from supporting local farmers to creating educational programs around sustainable living.

Additionally, I have been involved with community-focused groups aimed at improving resource accessibility and social equity. In these organizations, I’ve supported project planning and helped coordinate events that bring community members together, which has given me a solid understanding of the logistics and collaboration needed for success in a mission-driven environment. Though I haven’t served on a cooperative board, my work experience aligns closely with cooperative values, and I’m comfortable contributing to an organization that puts people and planet over profits.

If selected to serve on the Outpost Board, I would bring a commitment to community engagement, an eagerness to expand my experience within a cooperative framework, and a desire to deepen Outpost’s impact on both owners and the wider community.