In the Spotlight
"My mantra revolves around a high level of self-awareness, humility, transparency and curiosity. More now than ever, the new normal and the role I seek will demand these traits to cultivate relationships, build trust, and serve a customer seeking a story, authenticity and continued convenience."
— Jeff Scott
Role Desired:
As the channel continues to evolve, I am excited for an opportunity to remain in the National Account On Premise beverage space as a supplier. Before delving into this side of the business 6 years ago, I was unaware of the impact my experiences in the channel would have on my career and me personally. There is certainly nothing like the NAOP experience and I would love to be a part of the comeback.
Length of Time in the Industry:
Growing up as a hospitality industry ‘brat’ gave me an early perspective in F&B from hotel, resort and restaurant operations. This is where I spent the first 20 years of my working life while earning two degrees in the business. Following, I switched gears slightly and gained wholesaler knowledge for 5 years with RNDC, then dug into the National Accounts channel as a supplier where I have been for the last 6 years.
What Makes You Unique:
There is no lack of talent, strong relationships nor remarkable juice available out there in the NAOP. To set myself apart, my mantra revolves around a high level of self-awareness, humility, transparency and curiosity. More now than ever, the new normal and the role I seek will demand these traits to cultivate relationships, build trust, and serve a customer seeking a story, authenticity and continued convenience.
What You Love About Your Job/Career Path:
There is NEVER a dull moment. The industry is always evolving, offering constant challenges and I believe, once the industry returns to its former glory, it will remain unique in every way; never standardized (hopefully!). These traits make for an exciting industry and the basis of my ‘Why’ and the reason I won’t ever step outside of it.
Most Fulfilling Part:
Once you are deep in this industry, I think it’s very hard to leave it. There are those nearly impossible challenges, setbacks and obstacles, but the rewards so far outweigh the negatives and I don’t think there is any other industry like it out there. The ultimate goal is to WOW the customer through experiences with food & beverage – what’s not fulfilling about that?
What’s Important that Customers Experience With You:
Trust, influence, sociability, and presence as a partner top the list. Active listening and approaching with a consultative lens will be a huge necessity more than ever. A favorite quote: “Never let what you are trying to say get in the way of what the customer wants to hear.” Amen.
Personal Life:
Most important to me in my personal life is my faith, family, health & cultivation of authentic relationships. Outside of work hours, my time is most spent with my wife, Mandi and two kids Jonah (16) and Kate (10). We spend a lot of time in the kitchen and on the tennis court (even more now during the pandemic). Additionally, giving back is extremely important to me with regular community volunteerism through city events and at the local food bank. Have yet to set the world on fire…but that is on my bucket list.