Foodservice is “the relationship industry”

It has been almost 14 years since I started as CEO of the FSAA and it is time to move on to something else.

The foodservice/hospitality industry is the most wonderful career and I have enjoyed every minute of it! We call it the “relationship industry” and I believe that is still the case today. Yes, there have been significant challenges and changes but that is part of what makes it so exciting.

There have been many wonderful people in my career – people who also love what they do. I have always said that if you like what you do, you will be good at it. If you love what you do, you will be outstanding!

It has been immensely rewarding to see how the FSAA has evolved and developed over the years, providing services in areas such as networking, education, training, professional development and strategic alliances. All of these have established a platform for industry cohesion and a genuine sense of belonging.

The mentoring program and business management scholarship are well-established as the benchmark for professional development among people looking to advance their career.

Our networking events such as the breakfast forums, Viewpoint Lunches, National Awards of Excellence and Foodservice Today & Tomorrow Conference provide opportunities to meet with industry colleagues and peers as well as to enjoy the benefits these can deliver in a relaxed environment.

Our inaugural benchmarking survey this year was an industry first and has been received with an enthusiastic response.

People have asked me what I intend to do – I am not a person who can be idle, so I will be driving my consulting business, VC Business Solutions.

I truly believe in the FSAA – it is about doing what it says, not just talking about what will be done. My replacement Minnie Constan will do a first-class job and I urge you to support her and the FSAA.

I wish you all the best.

Vince Crawley.