SOURCE | Spring 2023 5
technical college and earned his broker ’ s license , which proved useful as Waterford grew into a bedroom community for nearby Milwaukee . He jokes he can travel from his front door to Fiserv Forum for a Bucks game in 35 minutes .
“ I ’ m a big sports guy , and while my loyalties are to Wisconsin teams , I can appreciate any sport played well ,” he said . “ I think sports are a great metaphor for life , and business . It ’ s all about communication and building a culture to accomplish your goals .”
Communication and customer service is what first exposed Malchine to FS . In 1990 the farm had a spray issue that was not being resolved to their satisfaction . Finally , they reached out to Conserv FS , and their employee went above and beyond to solve the issue , bringing out the right experts and working until there was a resolution .
Kelly and Kevin
“ Right then , I knew I wanted to be with FS , with a company that provided that kind of service ,” Malchine said . “ That employee , Joe Terando , is still with Conserv FS and still works with us today .”
Today , Malchine runs the farm with his brother Mike and nephew Ryan . They each bring their own skills to the operation – Kevin handles marketing and accounting , Mike is the mechanic , and Ryan manages the crops .
Malchine served for 20 years on the Conserv FS Board of Directors , which led him to the GROWMARK Board in 2012 . Encouragement from peers and family led him to run for chairman , helping him realize that his skills and talents are a good fit for the role .
Kevin talks with other System leaders at the 2023 Cooperative Leadership Conference
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