In this week’s episode, host Nick Portillo talks with Craig Gentry, VP and General Manager of Idahoan Foods. Craig shares insights from decades in the foodservice industry, including years spent abroad as an expat, and how different mentors helped refine his focus and influenced his leadership style today. He also discusses the art of negotiation and why it is an important skill to develop, regardless of where your career path takes you. 

QUOTES

• “People are really important not just because of the skillset they bring in but because of the multiplicative nature of what they bring to work culture. Systems are just an enabler.” -Craig Gentry [29:33]

• “As the leader, you have to look at how your message is being received and then first point the finger at yourself. You have to ask if there is something you did or did not say or a way you could have communicated the message for it to have been received better.” -Craig Gentry [13:01]

TIMESTAMPS

[00:55] Craig’s introduction to the foodservice industry and career growth

[11:15] How mentorship and leadership can shape individuals  

[22:15] Building strategy into innovation

[36:12] The value of in-user data

[47:12] Craig’s advice for college grads entering the workforce

RESOURCES

Portillo Sales

CONTACT

Nick: nick.portillo@portillosales.com

Craig: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craiggentry/