window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'UA-60020161-1');

Luke Schell

Luke Schell

Luke Schell

Interim General Manager Services

lukeschell@columinate.coop
651-247-0383

Areas of Expertise:

  • Ability to quickly assess store operations and develop an improvement action plan for existing store.
  • Background in Co-op relocation, expansion and remodel projects: able to review relocation plans and designs, pro formas, and project assumptions.
  • Ensure qualified architects, store designers, contractors, legal representatives and project managers are hired for each project.
  • Skilled in communicating with board of directors
  • Provide competent reporting and documentation on all project assignments

My Goal is to work with Co-op Board of Directors and staff to improve overall store operations for continued success.

— Luke Schell

Biography:

  • Worked 12 years with Whole Food Market
  • Employed nine years as a General Manager and six years Interim General Manager throughout Midwest and East Coast Food Co-ops

Experience:

  • Relocated a Minneapolis Co-op in a 2-year window
  • Worked on a team that successfully consolidated two Co-ops.
  • Actively worked on a complex relocation project In Massachusetts.
  • Completed an expansion project at a Minnesota Co-op.
  • Employed 12 years with a major National Natural and Organic Foods organization
  • Worked 17 years with 11 different Co-ops as a General Manager and Interim General Manager.

Success Stories:

Relocated Linden Hills Co-op in less than two years.  One of only few Co-ops to open with positive bottom line in first months of operation.

Luke Schell came to our co-op in February 2023 as a turnaround manager. He was scheduled to be here for approximately 3 months. The staff at the store had some real concerns and hesitations because of prior consultants. Upon his arrival, we immediately met with someone who not only had the experience we needed but had a great personality and really took an interest in what the co-op was doing. He set out to first understand where the store was, what the store was lacking, and where it needed to change to grow and continue to operate. He created an easy-to-understand action plan, that included input from the entire staff, but also met with our board’s approval. Not only did he take input from everyone, but he observed and worked alongside the staff to evaluate the operations, staff challenges, and areas of opportunity. Once the plan of action was created, he led the way to accomplish the tasks at hand, regardless of if it was store cleanup (from dumpsters to cleaning chemicals), or financial reports, budgeting, or connecting the staff to other professionals where and when needed. Luke made a significant impact, not only on the operations of the store but on the morale of our entire team. He led by example, worked 6 days per week and it wasn’t long before he became part of our family. I can honestly say he has been the best consultant that I have ever worked with. In the end, he provided us with exactly what was needed to change, start to grow, and continue to operate. If Luke asked me to come work with him, I wouldn’t hesitate. He is truly missed!

Joe Doura, Interim General Manager, Urban Greens Co-Op

Ready to take your organization to new heights? Contact us today to get started!

You have questions, we have answers.

In our library, you’ll find a wealth of free resources from expert partners whose experience and hard-won victories can help address your specific questions.

This website uses cookies and third party services. Settings ACCEPT

Tracking Cookies

Basic analytics and user activity tracking.

Third-party Content

Required for Youtube videos and other off-site content.