Michael Palmer
St Louis
Summary
Mission-driven leader with experience building and managing organizations that combine operational excellence with community impact. Successfully co-founded a vending business generating $200K annually and leads a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving communities in 18 states and 2 countries, including grant oversight and program development. Skilled in team leadership, volunteer development, pastoral care, and building partnerships to address community and spiritual needs.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Co-Founder
Better Vending Co
Florissant, MO
09.2023 - Current
- Managed end-to-end operations for 25 vending machines across 19 locations, including product sourcing, inventory management, and restocking.
- Generated approximately $200K in annual revenue through strategic product selection and location management.
- Built and maintained client relationships, delivering responsive customer service and resolving service issues quickly.
- Performed maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs to ensure high machine uptime and operational reliability.
- Optimized restocking routes and service schedules to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs.
- Handled cash collection, financial tracking, and supplier coordination to support profitability and inventory consistency.
- Trained and supervised employees on stocking procedures, customer service, and basic machine maintenance.
President
The Center for Spiritual Formation and Retreat
Florissant, MO
07.2022 - Current
- Co-founded and lead a registered nonprofit organization providing emotional and spiritual support to individuals across 18 U.S. states and 2 countries.
- Secured and oversaw implementation of a $282k grant, ensuring full compliance with funding requirements and reporting standards
- Directed organizational strategy, program development, and community outreach, resulting in annual donations increasing year-over-year.
- Provided spiritual direction and guidance, helping individuals navigate emotional, personal, and spiritual challenges.
- Built and maintained partnerships with community stakeholders to expand reach and impact globally.
- Managed operations, governance, and nonprofit compliance in alignment with 501(c)(3) regulations.
Lead Pastor
Living Vine Church of the Nazarene
Napa
01.2012 - 07.2022
- Provided strategic leadership and vision for church operations, programs, and community engagement.
- Delivered weekly sermons and teachings, effectively communicating to diverse audiences.
- Led and developed staff and volunteers through training, mentoring, and performance guidance.
- Oversaw operations including budgeting, event planning, and program coordination.
- Provided pastoral care through counseling, conflict resolution, and crisis support.
- Facilitated collaboration among local community leaders to address food insecurity through coordinated outreach initiatives.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Intercultural Ministry
MidAmerica Nazarene University
Olathe, KSSkills
- Strategic Leadership & Organizational Vision
- Team Development & Volunteer Management
- Program & Project Management
- Budgeting, Fundraising & Grant Compliance
- Operations & Multi-Location Oversight
- Community Engagement & Partnership Building
- Counseling & Pastoral Care
- Conflict Resolution & Mediation
- Inventory & Logistics Management
- Problem-Solving & Process Improvement
Timeline
Co-Founder
Better Vending Co
09.2023 - Current
President
The Center for Spiritual Formation and Retreat
07.2022 - Current
Lead Pastor
Living Vine Church of the Nazarene
01.2012 - 07.2022
Bachelor of Science - Intercultural Ministry
MidAmerica Nazarene University