References & Résumé

“Within a year of being established with us, his café/deli, Fresh Coast Market, rose to the rank of Market of Distinction. This honor is designed for top-tier grocers who are considered pillars in their community. He was the 39th member in Boar’s Head’s 120-year history.”

Jeffrey K. Schwartz · Great North Provisions, authorized purveyor of the Boar’s Head Brand

Leadership & community

“In 2017, Dave acquired a local party store with twelve employees and successfully transformed it into an award-winning gourmet market — generating more than 30 FTE jobs and doubling its sales within just four years. Throughout our professional relationship, Dave has consistently met his financial obligations and has even paid off debts ahead of schedule.”

Constance Deneweth · Managing Member, Copper Ridge LLC; former President & CEO, Traverse City State Bank

“Dave Sears took a very small market and was able to turn it into something huge — for example by supporting almost 300 Michigan businesses and farms. He never turned down an opportunity to help. I put all my support in him as he continues in his career.”

Rep. John Roth · Michigan House of Representatives, District 104

“Dave grew a very successful business with Fresh Coast and employed several great employees who enjoyed working there. His leadership skills in growing and leading their business were excellent.”

Ron Lemcool · Supervisor, Charter Township of Long Lake, Michigan

Partners — what working with me did for their business

“Our sales to Fresh Coast as a vendor have increased by 200% since January 1, 2019, and I believe we are just getting started.”

Jon Friske · Owner, Friske Farms, Ellsworth, Michigan

“Over the course of three years, Fresh Coast Market has purchased nearly $200,000 of baked goods and produce from our farm. Their support has been invaluable in strengthening our company’s viability.”

Jen · Owner, 9 Bean Rows

“With over 50% growth in sales, they have been a great business partner for M22 — able to reach more local customers due to their location and reputation as one of the best markets in the area.”

Nick Madrick · Owner, M22

“Since 2018 our sales with them has increased more than 40%. The dedication that they have put into creating an exemplary café in our community is something that we hold in high regard.”

Jamie Bell · Higher Grounds Coffee

The people who worked for me

“I thought I was getting a job as a barista. I ended up getting a wonderful family of coworkers, the most fun, organized and proactive business I have ever worked at, and the most surprising opportunity to advance and grow with Dave’s encouragement. Ask Dave about all of the times I was ready to do something else — he reinvented how and what I did to better suit my skills and make my work day exponentially better. Who does that?”

Karen · Former team member, Fresh Coast Market

“We don’t have drama in the workplace. Customers love it, they love the staff, and you’re going to get a good feeling, and you’re going to want to come to work.”

Nancy Haller · Customer Service Manager, Fresh Coast Market

“Dave Sears runs a first class operation with no drama, and you will learn the best practices of food service in a fun environment. It’s where colleagues become family.”

Ray · Former team member, Fresh Coast Market

“Working for the Sears family was one of the biggest blessings of my life. They gave me so much guidance for my job and life — working for them helped me be where I am today.”

Emma · Former team member, Fresh Coast Market

“They are amazing people who take care of their team. Working for them taught me so much that has carried into other jobs and aspects of life.”

Brandon · Former team member, Fresh Coast Market

Documents

Dave Sears — Full Résumé

Twenty-five years of operations leadership, in two pages. PDF.

Download

Our Story, Told by Others

Eleven partner and community testimonials · PDF

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Boar’s Head Letter of Reference

Jeffrey K. Schwartz, Great North Provisions · PDF