Global Executive l Board Director I Strategic Advisor I Social Impact & Sustainability Advocate
Yesterday - Friday, November 17 - was my last day serving as President of Fair Trade USA (FTUSA). For those not familiar, FTUSA is a leading social enterprise focused on sustainable development and poverty alleviation. I joined the FTUSA Board of Directors in 2014 because I was inspired by the organization's mission, track record, and vision for "Impact at Scale". Between 2014-2020, I served as Vice Chair of the Board and on various committees. Early in 2020, I accepted an offer from FTUSA's Founder - Paul Rice - to serve as President & COO of FTUSA - to partner with Paul, the Board, Management and broader team to strengthen our model & scale our impact. After 3 action-packed years, in early Q1 2023, I informed Paul and the Board - that I would be stepping down from my role as President in Fall 2023 to focus more on my health, family and other pursuits. We communicated this news to Staff back in April. The past 3-4 years have included lots of "twists & turns" and "ups & downs". We lived and worked through a pandemic, social & political unrest, economic instability, supply chain disruptions, high inflation, several wars, labor market changes - just to name a few. We had our share of internal challenges as well - including the transition to remote work, resource limitations, shifting priorities and staff turnover. Challenges are an inevitable part of any journey - they can be energizing but they are not always fun. That said, within this "context" - over the past 4 years - the FTUSA Team has grown the business, built new partnerships, entered new categories, strengthened our program in key areas, advanced our culture & capabilities, made important progress on our transformation journey and increased our social, environmental and economic impact. So much has been achieved and yet important work remains. It has been an honor to work with so many passionate & talented colleagues, customers, producers, and philanthropic supporters. I am especially grateful for - the FTUSA Team - our people. Their talent, energy and commitment to FTUSA's mission, values, model and vision for IMPACT AT SCALE - has been an inspiration. While yesterday was my last day as FTUSA's President, I will continue to support the organization by serving on the FTUSA Board and in other ways. I continue to be energized by FTUSA's prospects for growth and impact, and proven ability to fuel positive change for people and planet. I remain a strong believer in the power of the Fair Trade Movement. As for what's next for me, I like to say "whatever I want". Seriously though, near-term - I will be focusing more on family, friends, fitness & fun. In Spring 2024, I will begin to explore "what's next" on the "work-front". In closing - Massive appreciation, respect & gratitude to the FTUSA Team - current & alumni - and Happy Thanksgiving to all! #gratitude #sustainability #teamwork #impact #purpose Fair Trade USA
Having partnered with you through some of the 'twists and turns' of the past several years, Larry, I applaud your service - you made many MANY contributions to ensuring FTUSA as an organization can sustain its mission. I hope you get some much deserved R&R and perhaps we can finally have that long-overdue celebratory toast (or coffee - FAIR TRADE OF COURSE!). Congratulations!
You have done your share of ‘heavy lifting’, & of course there is so much need still in the world so I’m certain you will find the next endeavor which needs your talent.
Larry, nice note of farewell and continuity. I especially like "strengthen and scale" for FTUSA. Thank you for inviting contributions from the outside, guiding the team through COVID and redefining standards for apparel. FTUSA's mission is vital and the future is bright.
Incredibly proud of my Big Brother! Nobody does it better!!! Can’t wait to spend some quality family time with you guys. Maybe even some touch football!
Larry, Congrats on a great run, and for making a great choice: family, friends, fitness and fun. #friendship #gratitude
Larry, thank you for your many years of dedicated leadership at Fair Trade USA. It was always a pleasure working with you. I learned so much from you during our time together, and to this day I still regularly quote Larry-isims! Wishing you a relaxing and rejuvenating next phase.
Congrats Larry on another fantastic career chapter, where you’ve been able to live your values.
Bravo Larry. A cause very well served. May your leadership legacy inspire future momentum for this great and relevant organization. Much respect my friend.
Larry, it was a gift to be able to serve with you and learn from you. Your leadership brought light no matter the situation, and your impact lives on. I love that you’re giving yourself the space to do whatever you want!!!
Congratulations Larry, nice note, I can feel you speaking. All the very best going forward, stop by Durham NC on the next part of the journey. Peace and Love