Local nonprofit San Diego Oasis, which has its flagship center in La Mesa’s Grossmont Center, has welcomed new Chief Operating Officer (COO), Michael Craig, to its leadership team.
Craig brings to San Diego Oasis extensive experience in organizational leadership, including knowledge in the areas of event coordination, talent acquisition, hospitality, and staff development.
Working alongside San Diego Oasis President and CEO, Simona Valanciute, he will lead all aspects of operations, including facilities management, human resources, finance, compliance and ethics, and information technology. With the opening of San Diego Oasis’ newest and most innovative location in Rancho Bernardo later this summer, Craig’s expertise is a timely addition to the organization’s award-winning history in serving older adults and at-risk children.
“The Oasis team is truly exceptional,” says Craig. “I cannot express enough how excited I am to work alongside such a strong and highly motivated group of professionals.”
A native San Diegan, Craig served as COO of Amplified Ale Works Brewery where he helped open two brew pubs in Pacific Beach and East Village with live music venues, restaurants, and a coffee roastery. Craig revamped their human resource systems and created 60 new positions while maintaining lean operational practices. He led a new merchandising program, which grew 10-fold in three months and not only provided sustained revenue during multiple shutdowns, but also expanded into an e-commerce division outside of San Diego. An entrepreneurial leader, Craig also procured a coffee roaster and helped launch the coffee brand, Amplified Coffee Works. In the last 30 years, he helped open more than 30 restaurants across the United States. Craig holds a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership and Finance.
“I am eager to nurture our vision and promote the importance of empathy, respect, and inclusivity for our members and volunteers,” says Craig.
For more information on San Diego Oasis and how to get involved with the organization, visit sandiegooasis.org.
