Tami Nielsen

Leads all internal operations, including food acquisition, distribution, finance, agency relations, transportation and distribution centers in Des Moines and Ottumwa.

Provided oversight for more than 625 food assistance programs and partners across 55 Iowa counties. Established and maintained standard operating procedures. Managed a team of nine. Contributed to all key organizational decision-making including strategic planning, budgeting and partner and donor relations.

Built and maintained strong relationships between Food Bank of Iowa and partner agencies. Established a robust orientation process for new partners. Tracked and maintained county data to ensure compliance with Feeding America guidelines. Developed and planned meaningful annual agency conference.

Assessed food insecurity in 10 Iowa counties and developed plans to meet the need for food assistance. Trained, monitored and audited partners to ensure compliance with Food Bank of Iowa, Feeding America, USDA and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services.

Developed business strategies driving sales through product development, selection, pricing and presentation. Managed vendor selection process, developed strong vendor relationships, monitored industry trends and evaluated competition. Designed and offered custom orders as requested. Built loyal clientele. Increased annual jewelry sales by 555%.