As Foodservice Consultants Society International (FCSI) marks its 70th anniversary, in a new video leading members from across its global divisions reflect on what the organization has meant to them, their careers, and the broader industry.
Watch the video here:
Eric Norman FCSI, president of FCSI Worldwide, opened the tributes by emphasizing the organization’s personal and professional value. “FCSI, to me, is about collaboration, friends, networking, business,” he said. “It’s been very influential to my business and to me personally in my journey.”
Christine Guyott FCSI, chair of FCSI The Americas, echoed that sentiment. “FCSI has meant so much in my life. It’s been a part of who I am and what I do for a long time,” she said, adding that the organization “really is the epitome of professionalism and thought leaders.”
From the Asia Pacific region, Ben Gregoire FCSI, chair of FCSI Asia Pacific, highlighted the unifying role the society plays. “FCSI breaks down a lot of the professional barriers that have existed in our region. It gives us, as consultants, a platform where competitors can actually sit down together and talk openly.” He credited the society with fostering both professional and personal growth.
Frank Wagner FCSI, chair of FCSI Europe, Africa, Middle East, emphasized the organization’s global learning network. “Understanding how much I can learn from colleagues all over the world… that was for me the biggest advantage of FCSI – the international networks,” he said.
A supportive community
Other senior figures – a selection of recent past presidents of the Society – agreed on FCSI’s value as a supportive community. William Caruso FFCSI (PP) spoke about the “spirit of sharing, education, and creating a professional family,” while William Taunton FCSI (PP) described FCSI as a source of “belonging” and mutual support. Mario Sequeira FCSI (PP) pointed to FCSI’s integrity and code of conduct as qualities that set it apart.
Ed Norman FFCSI (PP) and Ian Hopper FCSI (PP) discussed the structure and community that FCSI provides for its members, with Hopper likening the organization to a “sleeping giant” in the industry with untapped potential. Others, such as Jim Petersen FCSI (PP), praised FCSI as the only organization that supports ethical foodservice design consulting on a global scale.
That the FCSI has reached its 70th anniversary is proof of the consulting profession’s longevity and growing influence, said Wagner, while Guyott celebrated the legacy of strong consultants who have propelled the organization forward. From its humble beginnings in a Chicago boardroom, FCSI has shown resilience in the face of several challenges and been a constant force within the industry, said Wagner, who emphasized the importance of reminding members to celebrate that fact.
Caruso added that the association is being reinvigorated by young professionals bringing new energy. Meanwhile, John Radchenko FCSI (PP) and Sequeira saw the anniversary as a symbol of the credibility and long-lasting relationships the society has cultivated over decades.
“If you’re 70, I guess it’s because you’ve been doing things right,” quipped Taunton.
Further details:
The video can be viewed, here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vx0hhK6dx9Q
Sam Noble
