How long have you worked at Nestlé Purina and in which departments/positions?

Started at Ralston Purina as an accounting trainee at the Dunkirk, NY plant in January of 1977. People in western New York refer to it as the great blizzard of ’77. Snow on the ground from October of ’76 to May of ’77. Sticks out in my mind. Worked in Purina factory locations in Mechanicsburg and Lancaster, Ohio (former cereal plant) until 1986 when I transferred to St. Louis as Controller in the Commodities Purchasing department.

If you knew then, what you know now, what’s one piece of advice you would give to someone coming into the company?

Keep your eyes open for opportunities in different disciplines within the company.

What are your long-term career goals at Nestlé Purina?

Retirement.

What are some perks at Nestlé Purina that you enjoy?

Baseball games and golf opportunities.

What is the most exciting thing you are involved in outside of work?

The anniversary club, a social group of retired African American professionals.

What items in your office could you not live without?

My cardinal baseball schedule.

If you weren't doing your current job, what would you be doing?

Working in the golf industry.

What's one hidden skill or talent you have that would surprise your coworkers?

I am a dancing machine.

What’s the most thrilling vacation you ever took?

Visiting my daughter in Japan.