Confessions of Cedric Junearick

Cedric Junearick, director of food and nutrition at Huntsville Hospital, in Alabama, loves barbecue, admires his mother and stepfather and wishes he could foretell the future.

Q. What is the best part of your job?

When the team is working together and the morale level is high and to see more compliments over complaints come in concerning the service we provide. 

Q. What is the worst part of your job?

Making those tough decisions that, at the time, are not seen as being for the good of the operation and organization. 

Q. What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?

My greatest achievement was for my vice president to see that it was my time to become the next director of the department. By him believing in me, it gave me the confidence to own the role and be more determined to make him and the organization proud.

Q. If you weren't in foodservice what would you be doing?

I’d probably be in the U.S. Army, serving my country.

Q. Which talent would you most like to have?

The ability to predict the future. 

Q. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

I don’t think people perceive me as being as friendly as I am.

Q. What is your greatest fear?

How my kids will turn out in life and if I, as a father, have been a good role model for them. 

Related:Cedric Junearick: Reluctant star

Q. Which living person do you most admire?

My mother and stepfather.

Q. What is your favorite meal?

I am a chef and should say healthy cooking but barbecue is my favorite.

Q. What is your guilty pleasure?

Burgers.

Q. What will people always find in your refrigerator?

Lactose milk and hummus. 

Q. What is the weirdest food you have ever eaten?

Raccoon. 

Q. What are your words to live by?

By fair, firm and consistent concerning the way I do business and manage people. 

Q. What would be your dream vacation?

Taking my kids to Germany and showing them where I spent some of my military career.

Q. If you had a time machine what historical event or era would you visit?

Slavery, to learn about my ancestors and their way of life during that time.

Q. Who is your favorite celebrity chef?

Bobby Flay.