Sean Luckman

Background

About Sean Luckman

Curious by nature, I always want to uncover the root of a problem before I prescribe a solution—because often what seems obvious at the start turns out to be a sideshow to the real issue. This problem-solving approach has led me to solutions that have produced sustainable results for organizations of all types—from Starbucks to startups, eCommerce firms to traditional retailers, nonprofits to multibillion-dollar corporations. And now, as Executive VP of Retail Stores and Continuous Improvement for Mud Bay, the premier retailer serving dog and cat owners across the Pacific Northwest. With this new challenge comes the opportunity to uncover even more ways for Mud Bay to delight customers, engage and advance employees, and make a better world for people and animals. A few highlights of my career as a Strategy/Operations/Customer Experience executive: Turning around an underperforming Starbucks region—delivering double-digit gains in revenue and employee engagement in 1 year by focusing on the customer experience. Envisioning and delivering an innovative global leadership conference that spurred the largest increase in District Manager engagement in Starbucks history. Rethinking how The Mac Store sold products and services to drive a 25% profit growth and 96% sales surge. It sounds simplistic, but at a fundamental level all of the challenges (and all of the solutions) have related to 3 key elements: PEOPLE: When teams are inspired by the mission of the organization and empowered to do what’s right for the customer, they elevate the brand and contribute to a culture of overall excellence. PROCESS: When operational processes can be smoothed to improve the customer experience, the benefits flow from the customer, to the staff, to the bottom line. PERFORMANCE: When the vision is clear, the strategy is sound, and the execution well managed, people jump on board and drive to the finish line with energy and enthusiasm. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my career has been mentoring and leading teams—developing future leaders, inspiring individuals to excel, and creating a workplace that keeps the “human” in human resources. My strength is creating strategic solutions driven by curiosity and a respect for people, process, and performance. Plus the experience and confidence that comes from years of success elevating iconic brands to even greater heights.