Why does Sodexo need a Culinary Diplomat?

Francisco “Frank” Fimbres is Sodexo’s first-ever Culinary Diplomat, a position unique to the company’s newly acquired U.S. House of Representatives account. Fimbres, appointed in September, acts as a liaison between the client and Sodexo staff, a job with potential in other operations. Below, he offers an introduction to the role.

Q: What are some of your duties as a Culinary Diplomat?

A: It is my responsibility to ensure that we are communicating with our client and our customers and that I’m bringing back intelligence feedback that we can use to improve our quality of service and food. I think that it’s very important to have someone who’s devoted and focused on the quality of the customer experience and employees.

Q: Why is this role key to the House of Representatives?

A: What we’re able to do on a day-to-day basis is talk to [foodservice staff] and make them feel that they have a place at the table, so that they are included. Sodexo is a new employer for them. So I’m also trying to make them feel that they belong. At first [guests] were like, “Oh, my God, who is this new company?” They’re not used to change, they are used to their dishes cooked a certain way, and this has all been an adjustment and a learning period for us.

Q: What is the best career advice you have received?

Related:Sodexo appoints ‘culinary diplomat’ as liaison to House foodservices

A: Learning to listen and being patient, so that you get to learn what your customers and audience want or need.