Michele Dupper

Michele Dupper currently serves as the Small Business Owner of Steel Oak Coffee, a thriving small-batch specialty coffee roastery dedicated to delivering high-quality, ethically sourced beans to local cafes and direct consumers. In this role, Michele leverages her extensive expertise in relationship building and negotiation to foster strong partnerships within the local coffee community, ensuring consistent supply and exceptional customer service. Her deep understanding of the specialty coffee industry, combined with her entrepreneurial spirit, allows her to oversee all aspects of the business—from sourcing and roasting to marketing and sales—while maintaining a keen focus on operational efficiency and quality control.

Michele’s background in commercial insurance and risk management plays a vital role in her approach to business operations. She applies her skills in surplus lines and property and casualty insurance to develop comprehensive risk mitigation strategies, safeguarding her business assets and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Her analytical skills and proficiency in Microsoft Excel enable her to track sales data, manage inventory, and optimize supply chain logistics effectively. Additionally, her leadership experience in ministry and social services has honed her ability to lead a team with empathy and integrity, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.

Key projects at Steel Oak Coffee include launching a new direct-to-consumer online platform, expanding wholesale partnerships with local cafes, and implementing sustainable sourcing practices. Michele’s expertise in negotiation and customer service ensures these initiatives are executed smoothly, enhancing the brand’s reputation and growth potential. Overall, her multifaceted skill set and industry-specific knowledge position her as a dynamic leader committed to delivering exceptional coffee experiences while managing the complexities of small business ownership.