- Food justice advocate, working to address food insecurity and promote access to healthy, affordable food
- Examining local and regional food systems, production practices, environmental impacts, and equity in food access
- Conducting applied research connecting agricultural practices to community outcomes, sustainability goals, and consumer food access
- Food Tourism and participating in cultural exchange programs and homestays
- Creative Writing, Road Trips, Drawing, Painting, Camping and Hiking
Ira Vaughan-Wiltsee
Flagstaff
Summary
Community-focused with a background in food systems, customer service, sales, and sustainability. Experience in applied research in sustainability and food access. Passionate about connecting communities with fresh, responsibly sourced food through mission-driven organizations. Highly efficient professional who is well established in fast-paced and challenging environments. Eager to learn with an aptitude for applying new knowledge with skill and efficiency.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Team Member (Food Pack)
Ceiba Adventures
Flagstaff, AZ
03.2022 - Current
- Assisted in menu planning, ensuring alignment with client preferences and dietary restrictions.
- Monitored inventory levels of supplies, coordinating restocking as needed.
- Provided friendly, courteous service to create memorable moments for guests.
- Achieved safe food handling practices by following all necessary guidelines and procedures.
Produce Associate Team Leader
Whole Foods Market Inc
Flagstaff, AZ
09.2018 - 03.2022
- Writing schedules, overseeing department purchasing, and ensured company metrics were met
- Leading teams in an effective manner to complete daily tasks and large scale projects
- Trained new team members and current team members in OSHA, Federal and State Food Safety policies, as well as other corporate directives.
- Assessed team performance and provided individual and group feedback to ensure department goals were achieved.
- Supervised daily operations of produce department, ensuring freshness and quality standards were consistently met.
- Developed promotional displays to enhance product visibility and attract customer interest.
- Ensured compliance with food safety regulations through regular audits and staff training sessions.
- Analyzed sales data to identify trends, optimizing product selection based on customer preferences.
- Organized seasonal displays that showcased fresh produce offerings, driving increased customer interest and sales.
- Streamlined inventory management processes for better product rotation and reduced waste.
Produce Team Member
Whole Foods Market
Flagstaff, AZ
02.2018 - 09.2018
- Maintained fresh, well-merchandised produce displays while rotating product to meet quality standards
- Assisted with receiving, stocking, and organizing deliveries to support daily department operations
- Provided knowledgeable customer service regarding produce selection, storage, and quality
- Monitored product condition and communicated spoilage or inventory concerns to leadership
Store Manager
Performance Bicycle Shop
03.2016 - 12.2017
- Evaluated sales to payroll reports, shop labor reports etc. to make store level decisions and increase profitability
- Worked with distributors and vendors to customize product selection for store location
- Conducted annual inventory, coordinated monthly and weekly sales and implemented company directives
- Coordinated with both regional and national leadership to meet company goals.
- Trained and mentored staff in sales techniques and product knowledge to enhance service quality.
- Managed daily operations to ensure smooth functioning of the store, maintaining a clean, safe environment for customers and employees.
- Addressed customer complaints promptly and professionally, resolving issues to maintain positive relationships with clientele.
- Maintained proper product levels and inventory controls for merchandise and organized backroom to facilitate effective ordering and stock rotation.
- Conducted regular performance reviews for staff members, providing constructive feedback and opportunities for growth.
- Optimized labor scheduling according to store needs while adhering to budget constraints, maximizing productivity without compromising service quality.
Sales Manager
Performance Bicycle Shop
Charlottesville, VA
06.2015 - 03.2016
- Responsible for merchandising the store and maintaining accurate retail pricing
- Implemented regional and national sales directives on time
- Trained new hires on company culture, sales techniques, product knowledge, and proper safe working conditions
- Assisted Store Manager in daily leadership of the team
- Coordinated promotional events, increasing foot traffic and brand visibility within the community.
- Oversaw daily operations of retail space, ensuring optimal product presentation and customer service excellence.
- Handled customer relations issues, enabling quick resolution, and client satisfaction.
Merchandise Processor/Receiver
Backcountry.com
Blacksburg, VA
05.2013 - 06.2015
- Processed incoming merchandise efficiently, ensuring accurate inventory management.
- Assisted in inventory audits, contributing to accurate stock levels and reporting accuracy.
- Picked orders, packed boxes and prepared shipments.
Recreation Team Member
Mountain Lake Lodge
Blacksburg, VA
06.2014 - 06.2015
- Led guided hikes and outdoor programs for guests of varying ages and abilities
- Ensured participant safety through clear instruction, monitoring, and adherence to safety protocols
- Adapted traditional recreational activities into inclusive programs, allowing individuals with physical limitations or special needs the opportunity to participate.
- Maintained accurate records of program attendance, fees collected, and equipment inventory for efficient operations management.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Sociology
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ08-2026
Associate of Arts - General Studies
Coconino Community College
Flagstaff, AZ12-2023
Skills
- Relationship Building
- Training and mentoring
- Project Management
- Communication
- Problem-solving
- Willing to learn
Accomplishments
- Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (Coconino Community College)
- Career Development Team Leader Graduate (Whole Foods Market)
- Youth Conservation Corp. Crew (YCC) member for Virginia State Parks 2012
- Emmitt Award for Individual Excellence (YCC)
Skills And Qualities
- Relationship Building Community Engagement: Experienced in creating inclusive and welcoming environments that encourage and engage others. Building trust, educating customers, and creating welcoming experiences
- Sustainable Food Systems: Experience with natural and organic foods and mission-driven retail
- Food Planning & Sourcing: Menu planning, dietary accommodation, specialty item procurement
- Communication: Clear, adaptable communication with diverse audiences
- Project Management: Organized and skilled at creating systems to manage time and prioritize multiple goals at once.
- Training and Development: Experienced in training and mentoring. Able to adapt different course materials to suit the needs of individuals.
- Operations & Logistics: Ordering, inventory management, coordination across teams
Interests
Timeline
Team Member (Food Pack)
Ceiba Adventures
03.2022 - Current
Produce Associate Team Leader
Whole Foods Market Inc
09.2018 - 03.2022
Produce Team Member
Whole Foods Market
02.2018 - 09.2018
Store Manager
Performance Bicycle Shop
03.2016 - 12.2017
Sales Manager
Performance Bicycle Shop
06.2015 - 03.2016
Recreation Team Member
Mountain Lake Lodge
06.2014 - 06.2015
Merchandise Processor/Receiver
Backcountry.com
05.2013 - 06.2015
Bachelor of Science - Sociology
Northern Arizona University
Associate of Arts - General Studies
Coconino Community College