What led you to your current position at Sodexo?
I started as manager trainee in 1976, and I’ve been with Sodexo ever since, progressing up the career ladder. The first half of my career was in Health Care custodial service. In 1993, I joined education facilities.

What is your typical day like?
I am responsible for growth and business development, client retention, policy administration and operational direction for District Manager staff. I am up early, and I either fly or drive to a current or potential client location. While I am there, I meet with the District Manager and General Manager to assess the status of operations, tour the facility, meet and greet staff, meet with the client and offer new direction for future activity.

What have been the biggest rewards in your career?
The biggest reward has been the ability to grow my responsibilities over the years. This has been possible because my leaders have recognized and rewarded my efforts, dedication and diligence. The second best reward has been seeing individuals come up through the organization who at one time or another benefited from my mentorship.

What are some of the challenges you enjoy?
The most rewarding yet challenging experience for me is in providing direction and leadership in situations where an account is struggling (financially and/or operationally) and seeing it improve to leader status. Of course, I also take great pleasure in signing new business!