Listening and Learning at the Co-op

Dear Co-op Members,

When I became your co-op’s general manager last fall, I made a commitment to listen. That may seem like a simple thing to do, but we often don’t give listening the time and attention it deserves.

Not listening to people is a lost opportunity. If my career has taught me anything, it’s that everyone can be a teacher.

The key is to give people the opportunity and then listen to what they have to say.

Over the past few weeks, the Co-op’s senior management team has met with employees at Co-op locations throughout the organization for another round of listening sessions. I want you to know that the ideas, feedback, and questions aren’t forgotten when the listening session is over. Part of my mission here is to tap the “collective genius” around me to build common ground and make a stronger co-op and community. Meetings may come and go, but the ideas they generate make a difference and keep us moving forward.

Co-op employees take time out of very busy schedules to come to the listening sessions. I was thrilled with the level of participation, the honesty and candor, and the creative energy they brought to the conversations.

These sessions affirm my belief in cooperation—a model rooted in altruism and sustained by people who are committed to the common good.

Have something you’d like to say? As always, please reach out to me anytime. My door is always open to you.

—Ed Fox

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Ed Fox

Ed Fox is the Co-op General Manager. To contact, email EdFox@coopfoodstore.com.

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