To celebrate Advantage Solutions Front-Line Appreciation Month, we are highlighting teammates throughout August who go above and beyond to live out our values at Advantage every day.
George DeMauro is a standout fresh-food specialist from our team in Central Florida with almost 50 years of experience in grocery, the past seven at Advantage. From creating friendships with store customers to working with merchandisers, George’s passion for the industry makes him a valued team member.
We recently spoke to George about his career at Advantage and what advice he has for front-line teammates across the organization.
What do you enjoy most about your job? What’s the best thing about working on the front line?
I’ve been in the trenches my whole life, and I love it. You never know what you’re going to see. You never know who you’re going to meet. I’ve been in the grocery business since I’m 15. I have 48 years in the grocery business, and I have enjoyed every minute of it.
How would you best describe your role and responsibilities? What does your average day look like?
I’m out in the stores every day. Right now, we have a couple projects going on in the frozen chicken department. We represent a couple of lines. We had some new items in, so we’re implementing the trays for the store. And over in the deli department, we’ve been testing chicken tenders from a client. So, I’m going around making sure that the stores are happy with the product. I’m always out at the stores, going in and making sure things are going according to plan.
How do you get through the more challenging aspects of your job?
If there’s a situation where we’ve hit a wall, I’ll step in to resolve it without being combative. One thing I’ve learned over the last 20 years, if you’re talking to somebody, think about what they may be going through that day. Was their kid sick? Did they have a bad night? You never know. I make it a point to befriend a lot of people. I appreciate people reaching out and feeling comfortable enough to talk to me about what’s going on in their lives and at work.
Do you have any advice for front-line teammates across Advantage?
Be friendly and be respectful. I always try to go in to customers with three things in mind. One, have pride in what you do. Two, be knowledgeable. And three, be honest with people.
What do you most appreciate about working at Advantage?
I love the flexibility the company offers. Advantage gives me an opportunity to work more flexible hours. It’s a great company to work for. The communication is fabulous, and nothing slips through the cracks with them. Whatever is going on in the world, anything that’s going on locally, they’re on top of it. I appreciate that and their guidance.
