At Craveworthy Brands, we believe that our team members are the heart and soul of everything we do.
Welcome to our 'Team Member Spotlight' series where we shine a light on the incredible individuals who make up our diverse and talented team across Craveworthy Brands and our concepts.
Meet Richard Gentry, our Operations & Training Specialist who focuses on Craveworthy Brands' concept Wing It On! and provides additional support for The Budlong Southern Chicken and our newest brand Sigri Indian BBQ. Learn more about Richard's journey, achievements and favorites!
How long have you been with Craveworthy Brands?
I've been with Wing It On! for four years and a part of Craveworthy Brands for one, so officially five years as a whole.
What's your favorite thing about working here?
I love getting the opportunity to learn new culinary techniques from all of Craveworthy's different brands.
What does a typical day look like for you in your role?
There's no such thing as a typical day and I love it! I might be performing field audits at our stores one week, am on-site in one of our restaurants assisting franchise partners to improve operations another and traveling to support a new restaurant opening in between.
What's the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job's seeing guests “wow-face” when they try our food for the first time.
What's a project or achievement you're particularly proud of?
I'm particularly proud of being the Chef that made Wing It On!’s two-time national award-winning Buffalo sauce (soon to be three when we bring home the three-peat this August/September!)
What's one piece of advice you'd give to someone just starting in your field?
Always put yourself in the customers shoes and strive to deliver the same quality of food and service that you want to receive when dining out.
How do you stay motivated and inspired at work?
Cooking and restaurants are my passion, so it’s easy to stay motivated when I get to do what I love every single day and call it “work.”
Speed Round
- Coffee or tea? Mountain Dew
- Early bird or night owl? Luckily, I can morph between either!
- Favorite vacation destination? Florida
- Favorite movie or TV show? Iron Resurrection
- Favorite food? Smoked brisket (or anything smoked really!)
- One item you cannot live without? My truck
- Favorite hobby or pastime outside of work? Golfing
- If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? Italy for the food! Italian has always been my favorite cuisine, so I want to try the authentic stuff at the source!