Sphere 1 appoints new president
Sphere 1 Inc. announced the appointment of Mike Shumard as president of Sphere 1 effective on May 1. Shumard has been with Sphere 1 as executive vice president since July 2016 as a part of the succession plan of longtime CEO Rob Moe. Shumard will assume the CEO position at the end of 2026.
Shumard has more than 20-years of leadership, sales, and executive operations experience. Prior to joining Sphere 1, Shumard served as the executive director for two large organizations as well as the vice president of sales for The Gavel Group/Winspire Inc. His vision for strategy and innovation will play a pivotal role in driving Sphere 1’s growth and development, the company said.
“Mike is someone that has become a vital part of our leadership team and without him, we would not be where we are today as a cooperative.” said Moe. “I am confident that because of Mike’s dedication to this cooperative, and with his vision for the future, we can be certain about the opportunity for growth and success as we look at the future for Sphere 1.”
“I am honored to ... lead this exceptional team and membership, said SHumard. "This company has an incredible history of exceeding its goals and changing industry standards for the better. I want to build on our tradition of innovation, and look forward to working alongside our incredible family of members and suppliers.
Sphere 1 also announced Rob Moe’s impending retirement, with his official transition process beginning December 31, 2026. He will remain CEO until that time and will then transition to a support role until his formal retirement at the end of 2027.
Moe has been instrumental in growing and strengthening the cooperative since joining in 2015.
“After what will be 43 years in this industry and more than 12 years at Sphere 1, It’s time for me to get out of the way," said Moe. 'It gives me great joy and comfort to know that the leadership of Sphere 1 as a cooperative will be in Mike’s hands. He has more than earned this opportunity and will take this organization to new heights.”
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