2016 board candidate statements and videos

Tania DePue

Statement

When my family and I moved to the Seattle area 10 years ago, PCC quickly became an integral part of our routine. Not only did PCC offer all of the organic, natural foods we enjoy, but we felt so welcomed because of how the employees treated us every time we were there.

It reminded me of my hometown of Deming, New Mexico, where everyone knew everyone else, and there seemed to always be a good, home-cooked meal from local ingredients that warmed you to your core.

When I was growing up, I took these things for granted because I never knew any other way of life. There weren’t any buzzwords back then to describe it, but after nearly 20 years as a finance and supply chain professional in industries ranging from community action nonprofit to high tech to retail, I now know the words: community and sustainability. These core values have been guiding principles for me throughout my life, both personally and professionally, and are what I identify with PCC the most.

Why do you want to serve on the PCC board of trustees?

I wish to serve on the PCC Board of Trustees because I have a deep, abiding respect for PCC and how it has remained true to its roots over so many years. I know it’s not always easy to do the right thing, especially when it’s not the most popular course of action. Time and again, PCC has proven its integrity and earned the trust of the neighborhoods it serves by putting community and sustainability first while running a solid business. I would consider it an honor to be part of the team that serves PCC in turn, and that ensures the values of community and sustainability remain at the forefront.

In your view, what differentiates PCC from other businesses?

I have heard before that because PCC is not a publicly traded company and therefore not beholden to “the Street,” it’s easier to make business decisions that are motivated by social and environmental responsibility rather than profits. While I believe this to be true, and it is what draws me the most to PCC, I also believe PCC knows it must strike a pragmatic balance between responsibility and business savvy in order to continue to do the right things, particularly as the business environment changes over time. PCC’s “self-awareness” in this regard is a differentiation that is unique in its authenticity.

What experiences, skills and/or perspectives will you bring to the board?

I have a professional background in finance and supply chain management, which includes identifying, developing and implementing sustainability programs within organizations. In having built financial business cases for programs such as waste reduction and recycling, energy efficiency and ethical sourcing, I have firsthand experience in leading both large and small group collaborations. Those collaborations were rarely easy, but the challenges were what made them robust and resulted in the best outcome. I truly believe everyone has the best intent; the skills and perspective I bring to the table include how to navigate varying inputs to drive for an outcome that achieves business goals without sacrificing core values.

Tania DePue video:

Paul Reed

Statement

I am a strong believer in the PCC mission and would love to help build on its success as a board member. Last year I stepped down from my positions of CEO and board member of Door to Door Storage, a national provider of moving and storage services, culminating a 40-year career of senior-level management experience in companies and organizations, including positions as CEO, CFO and Board Director. Since then I have joined one corporate board and three nonprofit boards, including Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and EarthCorps. Serving on boards and being a community volunteer will be my next chapter.

I grew up working in my family’s hardware store in Eastern Washington and tended our vegetable garden. I graduated from the U of W, was an officer in the U.S. Navy, then earned an M.B.A.

I have been the primary food shopper for my family for over 40 years and grew our own vegetables for many of those years. I buy mostly fresh, natural, organic and local groceries and have shopped at Seward Park PCC and now Columbia City PCC for many years.

Why do you want to serve on the PCC board of trustees?

I am impressed with the strategy, mission, accomplishments and market strength of PCC and would like to be a part of it. My career focus has been on building great companies, including multi-unit retail and consumer services. I am also passionate about socially responsible enterprises and PCC is among the best in Seattle. As a board member, I would enjoy helping PCC stay true to its mission, plan for strategic growth, stay financially strong and assess risks.

In your view, what differentiates PCC from other businesses?

PCC consistently provides the highest quality natural, organic, fresh and local foods in Seattle, supported by an amazing store staff. But PCC is much more than this. As a co-op, PCC doesn’t have to be driven solely by maximizing profits for shareholder value. Since the co-op is owned by and exists to serve its members, it can allocate funds to benefit its customers, suppliers and the community. PCC has been the long-term leader in Seattle for educating consumers on nutrition, food safety, food preparation and earth-friendly food production practices, including support of community organizations that share PCC values. These mission driven commitments that go beyond profitability must always be advocated and protected.

What experiences, skills and/or perspectives will you bring to the board?

My years of experience as a board member, CEO and CFO would bring a unique and valuable perspective to the PCC Board. My interest in grocery retail has led to an understanding of the strategies and operations of competing store brands.

PCC has grown into a large, complex company that will face significant challenges and opportunities in the years ahead. The grocery industry is changing rapidly as consumers are becoming more educated on nutrition and food safety. Larger chains are copying the success of PCC while opening more stores, and a chain with similarities to PCC is coming to Seattle. At the same time, the growth of Seattle is creating opportunities to open more PCC stores. The board has a profound responsibility to its members to work with management and ensure continued exceptional service and sustainable growth.

I am a collaborative team player and a student of good governance.

I would consider it a privilege and an honor to serve on the PCC Board.

Paul Reed video:

Elin Smith

Statement

As a home cook, gardener and former cooking instructor, I’m passionate about healthy, delicious food. This is what brought me to PCC over 35 years ago as a customer. Last fall, I retired from almost 30 years employment at PCC. I know our co-op well. I believe in its mission and values, and I am dedicated to its continued success.

During my PCC career, I worked closely with vendors to ensure compliance with high product standards, and collaborated with other merchandisers and PCC’s leadership and store development teams on store remodels and store openings. I have been with PCC through challenges and successes and am proud to have been part of its evolution and growth.

As a member, I rely on PCC for quality products that are fairly priced and trust that PCC will keep me informed on important food issues. I know PCC works to help ensure a healthy future through its social and environmental initiatives and actions.

I would be honored to contribute my experience-based perspective to the important responsibilities of PCC’s Board of Trustees, and would be diligent in holding us to the values, integrity and success we enjoy today.

Why do you want to serve on the PCC board of trustees?

It is important to me that PCC stay true to its values of high product standards for quality and ingredients, stellar customer service, and support of local, sustainable agriculture. I believe our co-op needs to maintain strong partnerships with community organizations that share our values, and must always offer customers an outstanding shopping experience. It is equally important that PCC continues to offer its employees excellent work opportunities and chances to grow within the organization.

While a PCC employee, I contributed to our co-op’s success. As a PCC Trustee, I would work to make certain that the fundamental attributes of our co-op are always given priority, as PCC grows in members, sales and locations.

In your view, what differentiates PCC from other businesses?

PCC’s scope of business and consumer cooperative structure make it unique in the retail grocery industry. In the Puget Sound area, PCC competes with chains that are substantially larger, with greater resources and buying power. But what our co-op lacks in scale, it makes up for in its demonstrated and ongoing engagement with the communities it serves. As a leader in the natural foods cooperative movement, PCC is a successful model for other co-ops, with much to offer in partnership to these other organizations for even greater success.

PCC has earned the high regard of consumers and the natural foods industry for the integrity of its operation, high product standards, excellent customer service, and for being a cooperative business leader. It also has become an employer of choice, with many exceptional employees who have made PCC their career and are committed to making PCC the best it can be.

What experiences, skills and/or perspectives will you bring to the board?

With my many years of employment with PCC, I would bring a perspective that is unique and valuable to our Board of Trustees from my experience, knowledge and understanding of PCC’s business and the natural foods industry. During my PCC career, I held positions of increasing responsibility in the merchandising department, finishing as the Interim Vice President of Merchandising and Procurement.

I have first-hand experience working with PCC staff, vendors and members, as well as a deep loyalty to our co-op as a longtime member and shopper. I would use reasoned judgment gained from this in guiding management in the stewardship of this organization and in fulfilling the responsibilities of a PCC Trustee.

Elin Smith video:

Alice Cho Snyder

Statement

I was born in South Korea, lived in Africa and immigrated to the U.S. when I was 15 years old. I lived in nondemocratic and developing nations long enough to deeply appreciate our democracy and a cooperative governance, such as PCC. I am fortunate to have built my professional career as a CPA who helps problem solve in collaboration with stakeholders, and then guides them to implement solutions. My current consulting practice provides financial oversight, training, coaching and advising services to small businesses with a commitment to triple bottom line, like PCC.

My husband and I operate a small organic farm in the Snohomish Valley with CSA subscribers. We came to appreciate the powerful influence of the PCC community and media attention via Sound Consumer when we were able to thwart the application of sewage sludge next door to our farm, thanks to a Sound Consumer article.

I would like to see PCC continue to encourage and engage a diverse group of people for membership and participation. I look forward to understanding the membership’s needs and priorities if I am elected. I would appreciate your vote.

Why do you want to serve on the PCC board of trustees?

I have wanted to give back to PCC for all the benefits our family has received for the last 30 years, as I explained on my video statement. I have a good combination of professional qualifications and experience in local food production, financial oversight, business acumen and cooperative governance. I think that my collaborative approach with a long-term view would be a good fit. I am able and willing to devote the time to carry out my fiduciary duties as a trustee. I think that I can make meaningful contributions and would be eager to work with the great team at PCC.

In your view, what differentiates PCC from other businesses?

People trust PCC to screen and select healthy products. For example, PCC was the only place where I felt that I could trust and buy food for my child with severe food allergies. PCC’s integrity is the key differentiator and critical in its standing in the community. PCC’s educational and advocacy work on food, health and environmental issues provides the holistic perspective needed to develop right solutions for our community. Furthermore, cooperative governance reinforces democracy at a local level and strengthens our community. I embrace PCC’s values as stated in its End Policies and would be proud to uphold and sustain this value.

What experiences, skills and/or perspectives will you bring to the board?

I have a proven track record of excellence, critical thinking, good judgment and integrity. In general, I practice Nonviolent Communication in working respectfully and constructively with others.

My commitment to a healthy and sustainable lifestyle is genuine and always a work in progress. I take my responsibilities seriously but strive to maintain an open mind and a flexible approach. I would act in the best interest of PCC and its members.

I look forward to working with other trustees, management, staff and members to optimize PCC’s resources and continue to thrive as a co-op and a business with triple bottom line focus. I will work diligently and creatively to help make the best decisions for the right reasons.

Alice Cho Snyder video: