Ian Bouchett
1.Why would you like to serve on the Board of Directors of the Onion River Cooperative?
City Market is an important part of our community here in downtown Burlington. As a member of both the Burlington business community and a member and frequent customer of the cooperative, I think that serving on the board of directors would be a fabulous opportunity to positively impact, and connect with more with the community.
2.The work of the Board is not operational – that is, it does not deal with the daily operations of the store. Instead, the Board deals with the overall policies that identify and guide the mission of the Cooperative. How will you stay focused on the larger vision, without being distracted by the day-to-day operations of the store?
As an entrepreneur running two young businesses here in BTV, my priorities would be participating in the dialogue that leads to big picture progress and expansion within City Market Cooperative, all while maintaining the focus on Vermont, and our local resources.
3.What strengths and skills would you bring to the work of the Cooperative’s Board?
As someone who grew up in the Burlington area, and from a young age, developed a love for our environment, I believe I possess a variety of skills and expertise that would prove valuable to our Cooperative. My years of experience working with cooperatives (mostly Credit Unions) across the country has kept me focused on what it means to always prioritize the interests of the overall membership, and my produce based entrepreneurial background as owner of Juicebox Raw Juice and Smoothie Bar on College St. has given me a strong understanding of and brought me closer to the people who makeup City Market’s Membership.