FM Profile: Fritzi Woods

When I complete my term in office, I will feel I have been successful if more women are represented on executive leadership teams.

Our members would like to see WFF have an impact on more women and men.  More products and opportunities for people to build strategic connections and meaningful development with additional touch points in both local markets and internationally.

When I became president, I promised I would make a difference for women, by leading the creation of a strategy to drive our mission. I promised to drive change on behalf of all women in the industry and to find new ways to help fill the career pipeline with more women.

My most unexpected reward in assuming this role has been the opportunity to experience the journey of many women advancing in their careers.

My strongest professional role models, besides my parents, are the many business leaders I have connected with over the last 30 years. I try and model the various strengths I see in and have experienced with them.

My first job in foodservice was at a Wendy’s restaurant. I was determined to have the highest hourly volume in that drive-through window.

The most important career decision I ever made was to not let others set boundaries or limitations for me.

I think my strongest personality trait is that I am kind-hearted and truly care for and invest in people and relationships.

The best way to improve the image of foodservice is to showcase all the great careers and opportunities in this industry. As a community, we need to get off the defensive and be more proactive.

I think I have a real talent for solving complex problems and driving results.

People are surprised to find out that I’m a CPA.

My comfort food is BBQ potato chips.

The reason more people don’t enter foodservice is that they are not aware of the fantastic opportunities for career advancement that exist in the field.

If I weren’t in foodservice, I’d probably run an executive coaching practice for women.

The most recent book I’ve read recently was a re-read of The Road Less Traveled.

My most prized material possession? I’m not really into material things. I like really nice things but I’m not attached to them.

The most challenging aspect of my job is prioritizing what we work on and, helping decide which initiatives will have the most impact on advancing women leaders.

If I could write my own epitaph it would be: She loved unconditionally, she gave her best. She lived life to the fullest.  

At a Glance

(Continued from page 1)

ASSOCIATION:
Women’s Foodservice  Forum (WFF)

No. of Members: ~5,000
HQ Address:
6750 LBJ Freeway,
Dallas, TX 75240

Phone: (972) 770-9100

Website:  www.wff.org
MISSION/VISION: Leadership development organization within the foodservice industry, dedicated to advancing women leaders.
PROFESSIONAL:
Earlier Career:
Executive Chairman, PrimeSource Food Service Equipment, Inc., 2003 – 2010.
Executive VP, The Dallas Morning News, 1998 – 2002.
VP Internal Audit, Belo, 1997 – 1998
Education: Stephen F. Austin State University