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In this introductory interview, Helen Jane Hearn speaks with new National Restaurant Association president and CEO, Tom Bené.

Over his 30 year career, Tom has led such foodservice corporations as PepsiCo and Sysco. This week as our guest on Order Up, he discusses what he is excited to see in the restaurant industry. Despite the challenges brought on by COVID, Tom believes innovation and prosperity are on the horizon. Listen to learn more about his background, why he joined the association and his outlook on this historic year for the restaurant industry. 

• [00:31] - Interview with Tom Bené
• [00:53] - How Tom ended up at The National Restaurant Association
• [03:51] - Unprecedented changes in the industry
• [05:48] - What constitutes a great day at the office
• [08:04] - What does serving the restaurant industry mean to Tom?
• [09:14] - Working with state restaurant associations
• [10:53] - Enabling new solutions
• [13:17] - Excitement ahead

The restaurant landscape has changed drastically in the last few months. To help restaurateurs navigate the impossible decisions they will have to make in the months to come, Order Up, is a brand-new podcast from the National Restaurant Association dedicated to aid in the recovery of restaurants and their employees.

Informed by the latest data, each Friday we’ll share conversations about the recovery ahead of us. You’ll leave with an understanding of the current industry issues, insights, and best practices. Subscribe today or visit us at restaurant.org/podcasts.

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This podcast episode was produced by Dante32.