Miki Ragsdale - Founder of Aji - A Taste of the World
Professional Overview
Miki Ragsdale is an accomplished entrepreneur and community leader with expertise in the culinary industry and non-profit management. As the Founder of Aji - A Taste of the World, she leverages her diverse background to bring global flavors and cultures to her local community.
Current Role
Miki is the Founder of Aji - A Taste of the World, a food company that specializes in artisanal, handcrafted condiments and spreads inspired by international cuisines. In this role, she is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the business, from product development and branding to sales and marketing. Under her leadership, Aji has garnered a loyal customer base and established a reputation for delivering high-quality, innovative food products.
Career Progression
Prior to founding Aji, Miki held various roles in the retail and non-profit sectors. She served as a Purchasing Manager and Operations Manager at Good Guys, a leading consumer electronics retailer, where she honed her skills in procurement, logistics, and project management. Miki also has experience in the home goods industry, having worked as a Corporate Procurement Manager at Restoration Hardware and in Purchasing at Polo Ralph Lauren.
In addition to her corporate experience, Miki has a strong background in community engagement and philanthropy. She has served on the Board of Trustees and Fundraising Committee of the Greenville Museum of Art, as well as the Fundraising Committee and Co-Chair of the Fundraising Committee at St. Paul's Episcopal Church.
Academic Background
Miki holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she specialized in Organizational Management and Entrepreneurship.
Areas of Expertise
- Culinary product development and innovation
- Branding and marketing in the food industry
- Non-profit management and fundraising
- Procurement, logistics, and operations
- Entrepreneurship and small business management
Professional Impact
Through her work at Aji, Miki has introduced unique global flavors to the local community, fostering a greater appreciation for diverse cuisines and cultures. Her commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing has also made Aji a socially responsible business.
In her non-profit roles, Miki has made significant contributions to the Greenville Museum of Art and St. Paul's Episcopal Church, helping to secure funding and raise awareness for their respective missions.
Conclusion
Miki Ragsdale is a dynamic and purpose-driven professional who combines her entrepreneurial spirit, culinary expertise, and community involvement to create meaningful impact. As she continues to grow Aji and deepen her involvement in local philanthropic initiatives, Miki is poised to make a lasting impression on the industries and communities she serves.