Employee Spotlight: Jimmy Lyons

Sales Representative and Equipment Start-Up Coordinator, Jimmy Lyons, is the newest member of the United Foodservice Solutions team. Get to know Jimmy and the experience and expertise he brings to UFS. 

Before working at United Foodservice Solutions, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?

“It would have to be a card dealer for a poker room. It was a side hustle job, but it took an incredible amount of concentration and quick math skills. The craziest part of the job was meeting people at the poker table. Definitely a wide range of personalities!”

How did you first learn about United Foodservice Solutions?

“I first learned about UFS eight years ago when Aaron and Link performed a pressure fryer start-up at one of the quick serve restaurant locations I managed. We’ve had an excellent personal and business relationship ever since. When an opportunity for me to join the UFS team opened up a couple months ago, it was a no-brainer!”

How do you balance your career and family?

“Balance is always important, and Aaron makes that easy to accomplish. At UFS, family always comes first, so when there is a family function of any kind, it is always easy to manage.”

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? 

“Outside of work, I enjoy time with my wife, daughters, grandchildren, and our dogs. I also love to golf. Aaron and Bob love golfing as well, so that’s just another plus.”

How has United Foodservice Solutions helped you in your career development?

“I have been in the foodservice industry for 36 years and recently UFS gave me the opportunity to reinvent myself. They have challenged me to play an important role in our team’s success and in my new career. It’s extremely exciting to have an opportunity like this at 51 years old.”

What advice do you have for prospective candidates?

“For any prospective candidate, being part of UFS is family. In the short time I’ve been here, I already feel like a comfortable shoe, and I am supported positively by everyone. The team here is always willing, ready, and able to help not only me, but my own family as well.”

What do you like most about United Foodservice Solutions?

“What do I like most about UFS? My team members.”

How has United Foodservice Solutions changed since you first started with them?

“I’ve only been with UFS for three weeks, but things are constantly changing. There hasn’t been a day yet where we’ve done the same thing. I feel like I’ve been with UFS for eight years, honestly, considering the relationship I have with the team.”

What are your hopes for your industry?

“My hopes for the industry are that things continue to expand. Families are so busy these days, that time management is huge. The quick serve deli and catering market continue to grow each year, so our future at UFS could not be brighter!”

What career lessons have you learned while at United Foodservice Solutions?

“Many, so far. Because this side of the industry is so new to me, I’m learning tons each day. We have to be thorough, and follow-up with all our relationships with customers, so we can find the best solution for them in the most efficient way possible.”

What does a typical day look like for you?

“I really don’t have a typical day because technically this is a remote position. I am in the office with the team one day a week, on the road visiting our customers and meeting prospective customers, and training customers on our equipment a large portion of the week. It’s definitely a mixed bag.”We hope you enjoyed getting to know Jimmy. If you are interested in our culture and would like to join the team contact us today: aaronh@ufss.net.