By incorporating so many points of information and so many in-depth steps, the plan responds to member needs by specifically addressing areas of concern through targeted efforts to advance the industry. The plan identifies three Key Initiatives tied to the three Core Values of ACS: Engagement, Education, and Sustainability.
The tactics that will be employed to advance strategies and reach goals are tied to end dates in the Plan. Much of the groundwork needed to achieve the three Key Initiatives will occurred during the 2017 calendar year. The ACS Board of Directors will review progress quarterly, and at the start of each year, updated timelines and targets will be established to ensure tracking to overall Plan goals. The Plan is intended to guide ACS through 2020, and is thus nimble enough to adjust to changing market needs and trends.
Funds needed to successfully complete the Plan will be itemized at the beginning of each year as part of the annual budget planning process, and will be approved by the Board of Directors annually at its January Board meeting. It is understood that with the approval of the Plan the Board of Directors supports the future expenditures needed to reach milestones and goals, and that the budget for such efforts must nonetheless comply with all ACS financial policies and budgeting guidelines.
In order to serve ACS members and engage the broadest possible stakeholder base, ACS will continue to strive for transparency in its operations, parity in its structure, fairness in its service to members, and nimbleness in its ability to modify policies, programs, and procedures to best address changing member needs and demographics.
Commit to a holistic approach to sustainability ensuring long term physical and financial viability so members can survive and thrive.
the heart of ACS's mission.
Create and provide access to resources, programs, and education for our evolving industry.
Support, promote, connect, and represent cheesemakers to the broader community and industry.
STRATEGY: Utilize new and existing communications tools to provide clear information and content to ACS members.
STRATEGY: Improve the value of membership for Producer members.
STRATEGY: Prioritize and enhance communications targeting external audiences.
STRATEGY: Develop proactive plans/best practices to ensure crisis preparedness. The Annual ACS Conference reaches 1,200+ individuals with 1,800+ different products.