Growing Through Every Opportunity

Sometimes careers begin with a simple act of helping out. For Dan Lange, it was assisting Beausejour Co-op’s bakery department with assembling a computer using his tech skills. Shortly after, he applied for a grocery clerk position, the beginning of a career journey that has since grown into more than two decades of leadership and development within the Co-op system.

Dan joined the Cooperative Retailing system in 2000 while attending high school. What began as a part-time grocery clerk position eventually evolved into leadership roles across multiple communities, including Beausejour, Gladstone, Neepawa, and Brandon. Along the way, he participated in several Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL) development programs, including FCL’s Student Development Program, FCL Grocery Advance, Food Group Training and various training seminars.

It is partly through these advanced leadership training opportunities that has helped shape his career path. “One of the biggest things that’s kept me here is the growth and development side of it - both for myself and for my team,” Dan shared during the interview. “No day is ever the same, and I enjoy helping people grow into leadership roles and seeing them gain confidence.”

Throughout his career, Dan has embraced opportunities to learn, adapt, and lead through change. From overseeing new store growth to participating in management development programs and instructor-led seminars, he credits mentorship and hands-on experience as key factors in his success.

After 10 years as Brandon Food Store Manager, Dan is now serving as Heritage Co-op’s Gas Bar Division Manager, and is excited to continue learning a new side of the business while building strong relationships with his teams across the trading area. He says one of the most rewarding parts of the role is being able to connect more closely with team members and work together toward shared success.

“I’m excited to learn from the team, and for them to learn from me as well,” Dan explained. “We already have strong operations and great people. It’s about growing together.”

For Dan, leadership goes beyond operations and business goals - it’s also about community. Over the years, he has been involved in fundraising initiatives, community events, parades, and local organizations, including volunteering with the Helping Hands Soup Kitchen board. He says some of his most meaningful experiences have come from seeing communities rally together to support one another.

Outside of work, Dan enjoys spending time with his family, coaching and supporting his kids’ activities, curling in the winter, and cheering on the Toronto Blue Jays whenever he gets the chance.

When asked what advice he would give to team members looking to grow their careers, Dan emphasized patience, positivity, and long-term thinking. “Look at it as a career, not just a job,” he said. “There will be challenges along the way, but if you continue learning, stay positive, and put yourself in the right situations, opportunities will come.”

At Heritage Co-op, we offer opportunities for development and growth within a strong sense of community, and Dan’s journey is a great example of where that can lead.