Robert Wagner

Accountant / Compliance Analyst

Why do you want to be on the Outpost Natural Foods Board of Directors?

I personally value and see the benefits beyond the basic transactional nature of Outpost Natural Foods Co-op. The fresh, local, and healthy products that Outpost provides to the Greater Milwaukee community assists in promoting a healthy lifestyle and reinforces the importance of making conscientious decisions on the food we consume. However, the positive externalities of providing locally sourced products extends far beyond the simple transactional nature of selling goods. The benefits of local producers, local farmers and local manufacturers provides a wider (if not more important) economic benefit to the Milwaukee community in the form or employment, wages and taxes. Because of this, I would love to be in involved with the Outpost Natural Foods Board in ensuring that our customers’ best interests are met, and that we maximize the provision of locally sourced products.

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

In addition to my current work experience as an accountant I also oversee the compliance of a university’s payment card environment. I annually review the payment applications and services that 40 plus merchants use on campus, and work with business and IT contacts to ensure our payment environment adheres to industry compliance standards. The core of my career has been in sales and marketing in financial technology and banking. I also have a BA in Economics and a MS in Finance. I have experience in reporting for POS systems; worked as a bookkeeper for a couple restaurants while in college; and enjoy learning about recipes and cooking.

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

Being a lifelong resident of the Milwaukee area, I am aware of the diversity the City of Milwaukee and the surrounding area offers. I understand the struggles that the city has endured in diversity and inclusivity and would work to support both the Board and corporate initiatives in diversity, equity and inclusivity. Recognizing equity, inclusivity and the diversity of communities, teams and organizations depends on self-recognition, self-evaluation and constant thought and reflection to ensure that all members of our community are fairly represented on the Board as well as within the organization. I would work diligently to ensure this is done.

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

I was briefly involved in the Friends of the Domes at the Mitchell Park Conservatory, as it is one of my favorite places (both aesthetically and the contents within) in the City of Milwaukee.