In this episode of the Titans of Foodservice podcast, host Nick Portillo speaks with Adam Letizio, Senior Vice President of A.J. Letizio Sales and Marketing. Adam shares his journey in the foodservice industry and discusses how his family has been in the industry for over 100 years, starting with a meat store in 1912. He talks about his experience in the Navy and how it taught him valuable leadership skills. Adam also highlights the importance of building solid relationships with clients and the challenges and opportunities of expanding into new markets.

QUOTES

• “In order to be taken seriously and to be credible with teams that you're trying to support, they have to understand how much you value and respect what they do.” -Adam Letizio [10:16]

• “If you can get some of these folks to make the decision and take a chance on your company, there's definitely an element of trust. It's almost like a marriage, but if you get people to decide, I'm going to uproot my career and my family's livelihood and come work with you, they put a lot of trust in our organization to have their back." -Adam Letizio [28:37]

TIMESTAMPS

06:30 The influence of Adam's military experience on his leadership skills

11:49 History of the Letizio family business starting in 1912

19:22 Navigating the challenges of working with family

22:21 The unique family dynamic 

27:18 Expansion into new markets through acquisitions 

34:13 The advantages and challenges of organic growth 

RESOURCES

Portillo Sales

CONTACT 

Nick: nick.portillo@portillosales.com

Adam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-letizio-1385a841/