Mike Howard Honored at MSM/GM Conference
The 2016 MSM/GM came to a bittersweet end on Thursday, April 28. Director/CEO Tom Shull honored President/COO Mike Howard as Mike finished out his last MSM/GM conference with the Exchange. After 44 years of distinguished service, Howard is retiring this year. “Nobody embodies a passion for those we serve more than our president, Mike Howard,” Shull said.
The crowd of managers and senior leadership were on their feet as Howard made his way to the stage for his final bow. Shull first presented Howard with the 2015 “Exchange by the Numbers” plaque representing our service to Soldiers, Airmen and their families.
You are a hero to your Exchange family. Your legacy will continue to shape this organization for many years to come.
Director/CEO Tom Shull
Shull then surprised Howard with a gift that represents the passion Mike has for the Exchange and his fellow associates, the Golden Telxon. In years past, the Golden Telxon award was given only to the best of the best. Stores awarded the Telxon had the best direct operating results (DOR) before depreciation, best gross margin return on investment (GMROI) and best inventory variance. For managers who have had the good fortune of a store visit from Howard, the Telxon represents a mentorship in inventory management.
“Today, on behalf of all Exchange managers, we present the last existing Golden Telxon to Mike Howard, President and COO,” Shull said. “You are a hero to your Exchange family. Your legacy will continue to shape this organization for many years to come.”
Shull also gave his coins to Ana Middleton, executive vice president chief marketing officer; Eric Sidman, vice president store experience and design; Linda Mihalick, vice president eCommerce marketing; Karen Cardin, vice president merchandising; and John Engroff, senior vice president eCommerce, for being the forces behind the customer experience transformation.
Finally, Tim Miller, multi-media production manager; Sandi Lute, chief of strategic corporate communication; Marla Smith, regional vice president; Russ Hinrichs, senior operations program manager; and Michelle Buck, data mining analyst; were acknowledged with a coin and thanks award for making the 2016 MSM/GM conference the best in history.
