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The Conversation Starter
For 22 years, Gerry Fernandez has worked to foster a more diverse workforce in the restaurant industry as head of the MFHA, based on the plain and simple fact that a company that doesn’t make use of all of the people and talents available to it cannot achieve its full potential.
Known for: Fernandez and the MFHA conduct seminars and other events to promote the business case for inclusion of all walks of life while also working to develop solutions for managing the modern diverse workforce. The MFHA also hosts the Showcase of the Stars, an event that encourages minority high school and college students to consider careers in foodservice and hospitality.
Power move: Fernandez has extended the MFHA’s reach by forming a partnership with the National Restaurant Association in late 2016. The partnership gives NRA members access to the MFHA’s Cultural Intelligence solutions, webinars, conferences, roundtables and consultation services.
What’s next: Fernandez has continued to evolve the conversation around diversity by addressing issues such as unconscious bias and working to address the insecurities of those currently in positions of authority.
