leslee dixon
business development strategies
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retained contracting
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coaching & advisory
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resources, trainings and tools
I believe that economic development is most powerful when it's rooted in community and aligned with ecological and human centered realities. I appreciate environments where collaboration, creativity, and courage converge.
Areas of Depth
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Strategic advising on scaling direct-to-consumer, wholesale, and institutional sales channels
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Development of outreach strategies for producers, distributors, organizations, and regional food system stakeholders
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Fractional leadership in internal operations, sales systems, channel management, and workflow optimization
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Guidance on market-aligned product and program design grounded in regional values, cultural relevance, and financial sustainability
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Equity-centered coaching and facilitation for entrepreneurs navigating growth, governance, and systemic change
Core Capacities
Visionary and community-centered leader with 25+ years driving innovation at the intersections of food systems, sustainable business development, and economic justice. Skilled in building mission-aligned programs, leading inclusive economic initiatives, and cultivating partnerships across rural and urban communities. Proven track record in scaling values-based organizations, designing capacity-building frameworks, and supporting entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds.
Certified by the Food Finance Institute, with access to an experienced network of team partners providing CFO services, accounting, and bookkeeping support. Committed to advancing equity, resilience, and place-based economic growth through practical strategy, trauma-informed practice, and collaborative leadership rooted in trust and reciprocity.
Business Development · Inclusive Business Strategy · Strategic Program Design · Leadership & Team Building · Cooperative and Community Governance · Equity-Centered Coaching · Strategic Partnerships & Ecosystem Mapping · Urban, Rural, Regional, and National Outreach · Small Business Development & Scaling · Financial Literacy & Access to Capital · Trauma-Informed Coaching and Advising · Regenerative Systems Thinking
CLIENTS (PAST + PRESENT)
Kathleen Baxely, CFO
I have had the pleasure of working with Leslee on several projects related to the food industry over the past few years. I have found her to be a smart, valuable collaborator who is able to identify complex problems and create practical solutions. Moreover, she is skilled at seeing ways to satisfy many competing demands at once. She has a deep understanding of brand building and product distribution. On a more personal note, Leslee is one of the kindest people I know and is still able to make tough calls when necessary. I admire her positive outlook and generosity of spirit.
Erica Gibson, Vendor Category Manager
"Leslee has a vast knowledge of the food industry and has helped many companies through the set up with distribution and launch of products. Kind and great to work with!
Mary Cargill, Sales Broker
“I have worked with Leslee Dixon in many roles, distributor, store level and brand management. She is a great communicator and responsive to emails and calls. Leslee has a lot of experience in brand management and is an asset in launching and growing brands in the natural channel.