FM Profile: Robert James Beach

When I complete my term in office, I will feel I have been successful if I leave ACFSA with a stronger membership base and national exposure.

When I ran for president, I promised I would bring ACFSA into the spotlight and promote the association to the correctional Industry.

The most unexpected reward has been being awarded a Doctorate of Foodservice at NAFEM.
My strongest professional role model was my first Sheriff, Charles C. Foti, Jr., who taught me what it means to be a public servant.

My first job in foodservice was Security Supervisor of the foodservice division at the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office.

The most important career decision was to join ACFSA in 1991.

I think my strongest personality trait is my sense of Duty and Honor.

The best way to improve the image of Correctional Foodservice is to show the professionalism of its workers.

The professional accomplishment I am most proud of is receiving the IFMA Silver Plate Award in 2011.

If I could pass one piece of legislation it would be make it mandatory that all offenders acquire life skills training before their release from jail or prison.

I think I have a real talent for organization and motivating people.

The best professional advice anyone ever gave me was to “stay the course.”

The reason more young people don’t enter foodservice is because of the low pay.

The most challenging aspect of my job is dealing with the inmates assigned to our kitchen.

People are often surprised to find out I am a commissioned law enforcement officer as well as a certified rescue diver on the Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team.

My most prized possession is the silver bracelet my wife gave me after Hurricane Katrina.

My favorite comfort food is a thick, juicy cheeseburger.

The famous person I’d most like to meet is Jimmy Buffet.

If I had a year’s sabbatical, I’d spend it with my family.

The aspect of the foodservice industry I like most is that it is never boring.

I cope with stress by riding my motorcycle.

If I were giving a young person interested in a career like mine some advice, it would be to learn everything you can from people who came before you.

If I weren’t in foodservice, I’d probably be a Pirate.

The most recent book I’ve read recently is Food for 50.

If I could write my own epitaph, it would be: “He was a good Son, Brother, Husband, Father, and Public Servant”.

At a Glance

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ASSOCIATION:
Association of Correctional Food Service Affiliates (ACFSA)

Founded: in 1969 to enhance, represent and promote the correctional segment of the foodservice industry. Members are foodservice professionals employed in correctional facilities and agencies within federal, state and municipal prison/jail systems.
No. of Members: 750
HQ Address:
210 N. Glenoaks Blvd Suite C,
Burbank, CA
Executive Director:Jon Nichols

Phone: 818-843-6608

Website: www.acfsa.org
MISSION/VISION:
To develop and promote educational programs and networking activities to improve professionalism and provide an opportunity for broadening knowledge.
PROFESSIONAL:
Job:  Director of Food Services
Institution: Orleans
Parish Sheriff’s Office,  
New Orleans, LA
PERSONAL:
Born:  Jackson, MS
Family:  Married to Angie; two Sons, Sam and Max