I've been in the foodservice industry for 19 years. The last 11 years were with a statewide Ohio foodservice broker. During that time I had many roles including sales, marketing, technology, operations and Key Account Executive. I've worked hundreds of food shows, deep fried everything imaginable and learned tons about how complicated the process can be to get food to a restaurant's table.

Previously, I worked  for a McDonald's franchisee in Allentown, PA for 8 years, holding all positions including Area Supervisor.

I'm originally from Philadelphia (Port Richmond), and yes, I still love and eat cheesesteaks, but rarely find one that compares to "Tony's Pizzeria, Steaks and Hoagies", my local Philly hangout as a kid. I also sold Philly soft pretzels every summer, wrapped in a towel, stuffed in my canvas newspaper delivery bag along with my Plochmann's Barrel O'Mustard. Walked or biked the neighborhood with the Philly pretzel sing-songy chant: FRRR-RESH PRETZELS! YOU'RE READY FOR FRESH..... PRETZELS! Paid a nickel for them, sold them for a dime... that woulda been around 1972,
I suppose.

I have felt the pain and the pleasures of foodservice for many years. Ever try to clean up after a disgruntled employee pulls a powdered ANSUL system? I have....twice. Not fun. I've hired and fired folks too many times to remember, worked too many double shifts, and mopped up alot of unmentionable things in my day. Dealt with 3rd degree oil burns, gang fights, police raids, drug busts and kid's parties. But I also learned a ton. And managed to make some friends, some mentors and lots of good memories along the way. More good than bad, I think.

Now married for 8+ years, with a 6 year old girl, a 4 year old boy and a rescued English Pointer mutt named Maisy. Life is good. In the words of Chef George Sideras, Nestle Foodservice...

"livin the dream"

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