Ep. 23 - Tim Volkema: “The Percs of Authentic Leadership”
Insights from Tim Volkema:
In this episode, I sit down with the very real Tim Volkema, President of Schuil Coffee, Sparrows Coffee, and Joven Group, for a candid conversation on the powerful impact of authentic leadership. Tim shares insights from his diverse career, spanning both corporate and entrepreneurial experiences, where he has led with integrity, built strong relationships, and cultivated a company culture rooted in trust. We dive into embracing vulnerability, the perks (or "percs" ;)) of staying true to your values, and how authentic leadership can drive organizational success.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
*The unique challenges and opportunities of the coffee industry, and how Tim navigates this dynamic market.
*Managing and working with diverse teams--leading people with varying skill sets and experiences.
*The unique challenges and opportunities of the coffee industry, and how Tim navigates this dynamic market, in addition to supporting young growers.
*Implementing change in a way that aligns with company values and ensures sustainable growth.
*Tim’s role as a “bar raiser”, setting high standards, and fostering excellence within his teams.
*The politics of the corporate world and how to navigate organizational dynamics with integrity.
*Scaling organically, focusing on sustainable, values-driven growth, and growth through acquisition .
Tim's BIO:
Tim is currently the owner and CEO of Schuil Coffee in Grand Rapids, Michigan, a position he’s held since 2017. Schuil Coffee has distribution in hundreds of grocery stores, cafes, and offices through Michigan and the Midwest. Schuil Coffee also owns and operates the boutique Sparrows Coffee and Joven Coffee brands. Tim is also a certified Q Grader (the coffee equivalent of a sommelier).
Previously, Tim was an Operating Partner at The Windquest Group in Grand Rapids, where he focused primarily on portfolio operations and board governance. Prior to this role, Tim spent over 12 years leading businesses across a variety of industries. He ran the high-growth Wag.com pet business for Amazon, responsible for its top and bottom line results. Tim also served as an Amazon Bar Raiser—a leadership role within Amazon designed to improve its recruitment efforts. Prior to Amazon, Tim co-founded and ran a fast casual Indian restaurant/truck mini chain as its CEO, which won several awards including Best Meal under $15 in San Francisco. Prior to that, Tim spent five years at Kraft Foods, managing brands like Grey Poupon and Shake 'N Bake. Tim started his career with Deloitte’s Chicago office, working with clients on M&A transactions and bankruptcy reorganizations.
Tim received his MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School and his bachelor’s degree in economics from Calvin University.
Tim lives with his wife, Merideth, in Grand Rapids, and they have three children.
Contact info: tim@schuilcoffee.com
Website: : https://schuilcoffee.com/