He began his career with the General Foods Corporation Post Division, and has, over the past forty-plus years, been a proven leader in the food industry, specializing in the foodservice segment of the market.
As the VP Publisher of Institutional Distribution magazine. Which at the time was the first publication designed to serve the needs of the foodservice distributor. The publication was later repositioned as the magazine for foodservice marketing, and became the leading voice of distribution, sales and marketing in the industry.
Reorganizing the editorial product, and broadening its circulation base to include commercial operations of all types.
Increasing revenues from $1 million in advertising sales to over $18 million by 1985. NRN’s market share rose over 23% in advertising revenue in the 14 years under his direction. Tom, as Chairman, additionally revitalized MUFSO, the annual Multi- Unit Foodservice Operators Conference, recognized as the major industry conference for chain operators.
A $2.4 billion division of Staley Continental involved in manufacturing, as well as full service and specialized chain distribution. Following CFS Continental, Tom joined Rykoff/Sexton as Assistant to the President, where he helped organize a new manufacturing division to sell Rykoff/Sexton manufactured products to large multi-unit organizations.
Providing strategic analysis, marketing and sales service to a variety of clients. ECOLAB, his major client, recognized Tom with the prestigious Pewter Plate Award for outstanding contribution to the company – the first award ever presented by ECOLAB to someone outside of the corporation. ECOLAB has been, and still is, a client since 1991.
Bringing together presidents and CEOs of major multiunit foodservice companies. This forum has been a major success, and 2019 will mark its 25th annual conference.
As well as a life fellow of the C.I.A. Tom has also worked with Michigan State, University of Delaware, University of Denver, Penn State, and New York University HRI schools.
He’s additionally played an active supporting role for the National Restaurant Association, Institutional Food Manufacturers Association, and National Educational Foundation, serving on their Communications Committee.
