Tim Schmidt

Agribusiness leader with 25+ years of success in sales, team leadership, and retail and cooperative operations. Specializes in consultative sales, dairy herd improvement, and customer relationship management. Known for expanding market presence, mentoring high-performing teams, and building enduring partnerships with dairy producers. Proven record of driving revenue growth, increasing efficiency, and delivering customer-focused solutions.

Team Leader at CentralStar Cooperative, Inc. (2017-01 – Present)

Lead a team across Indiana to support dairy producers through genetics, milk testing, analysis, and support services.

• Mentored field personnel to develop new accounts and strengthen client retention.
• Conducted outreach, on-farm meetings, and follow-up to grow territory presence.
• Represented the organization at industry events, trade shows, and career fairs.
• Maintained strong producer relationships built on trust, service quality, and support.
• Championed organizational values including innovation, collaboration, integrity, and customer focus.

DHI Specialist at CentralStar Cooperative, Inc. (2017-01 – Present)

Oversaw DHI testing numerous dairy herds throughout Northern Indiana, managing logistics and labor schedules.

• Ensured timely, accurate delivery of samples and reporting using PCDart.
• Consulted with farm staff to provide insights and herd management recommendations.
• Provided computerized recordkeeping and reports for Amish and Mennonite dairy producers from their hand-written paper records.
• Trained and supported new technicians and assisted peers as needed.
• Developed diagnostic testing strategies for farms to utilize our ELISA and PCR testing on milk, blood, and tissue samples.

Assistant Store Leader at Petsmart (2016-01 – 2016-12)

• Managed hiring, training, merchandising, and compliance within a high-volume store.
• Directed associate development and daily operations to exceed corporate and customer standards.

Territory Account Manager at Spectrum Brands (2011-01 – 2015-12)

Sold Stanley/National builders hardware to retail stores, distributors, and OEMs.

• Won national sales contest "Hit-For-The-Cycle" (2013).
• Drove comp store sales via new product promotion and merchandising resets.
• Hosted product training and represented the brand at trade shows.
• Built strong, service-oriented relationships across the territory.

Store Manager at Connolly's Do It Best Hardware (2008-01 – 2011-12)

Led daily operations of a $1.5M retail hardware store.

• Oversaw staffing, merchandising, sales strategies, and customer service.

Outside Sales Representative at Priefert Ranch Equipment (2007-01 – 2008-12)

Managed four-state sales territory for ranch and rodeo equipment.

• Increased territory sales and led competitive cattle-working demonstrations.
• Participated in trade shows and resolved customer concerns with professionalism.

Operations Manager at Petsmart (2002-01 – 2007-12)

Directed HR, training, merchandising, and shrink control in high-volume locations.

• Mentored associates into management roles; achieved district-best audit scores.

Store Manager at Tractor Supply Company (1999-01 – 2002-12)

Led a $2.5M farm retail store, achieving consistent sales and profit growth.

• Cut shrink from 4% to under 2%, and stabilized a historically underperforming location.

Bachelor of Science in Animal Agribusiness – Purdue University