CDM, CFPP of the Month - August 2025
Name: Julie Cox, CDM, CFPP
Job Title: Director of Hospitality
Employer: Story Medical Senior Care
Job Location: Nevada, IA
Years at Current Facility: 5 years
Years in Current Position: 4 years
CDM, CFPP Since: 2023
Why did you decide to become a CDM, CFPP?
I really enjoyed the energy and fun atmosphere you can have in food service. I worked as a cook for 4 years and became a supervisor for both of our campuses. I have been with Story Medical for 10 years. I really wanted to lead a group of amazing, motivated people who care about their residents and make a difference in their lives through positive interactions and leading by example.
What are your main responsibilities in your current position?
My main responsibilities are scheduling, payroll, ordering, keeping staff updated on training, conducting kitchen and dining audits, and making sure the lines of communication are always open between departments.
How do you organize your time at work to make sure you accomplish all your responsibilities?
I make sure to put out any fires first thing in the morning if there are any, then depending on the day, I have certain things that must be done, and I do those first. Then I go where I am needed and help where I can.
What is an example of an innovative way you have made change at your facility and how did you implement it?
We moved from a two-floor hospital building to person-centered care homes, so from one kitchen to two chef kitchens and three household kitchens. We had to change everything we did to a new way of cooking and serving. It was a breath of fresh air for residents and staff by being able to make items to order and spend quality time with them.
What was your first job in the foodservice industry?
My grandmother had a little restaurant in Ames, Iowa called The Lunch Box. I remember helping wash dishes and sweeping floors.
Who has been your biggest mentor in foodservice and how have they helped shape your career?
I think the biggest mentor has been my leadership here at Story Medical Senior Care. I never knew this was my calling until they saw something in me and pushed me to just try. Turns out I love it.
What are the biggest challenges you face in your position and how do you handle them?
Employee interpersonal relationships. I check in and always try to open the line of communication between staff who might have had a miscommunication and have them work together to work it out.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My staff! Also, watching residents having fun and enjoying their food.
How do you stay up to date with current innovations and trends?
I stay up to date with articles from ANFP, Martin Brothers, and my own research.
How do you envision the foodservice industry changing in the next few years?
As far as senior care goes, I think we will see more use of technology in the kitchens and how they order their meals. Also, I think apps will be used for checking off chore lists and closing duties.