CDM, CFPP of the Month - January 2019

Name: Erica Frame, CDM, CFPP

Job Title: Nutritional Services Manager

Employer: Glen Oaks Health and Rehabilitation

Job Location: Shelbyville, Tennessee

Years at Current Facility: 3 years

Years in Current Position: 2 years

CDM Since: 2017

Why did you decide to become a CDM, CFPP?

I became a CDM, CFPP because my passion is creating delicious foods and I wanted to make an impact on my residents’ health through nutrition.

What are your main responsibilities in your current position?

My main responsibilities are leading the dietary team, serving as a member of my facility’s IDT team, attending care plan meetings, charting assessments on my residents, catering food for facility functions and in my community, scheduling staff, and managing inventory and food orders. I am in direct contact with the facility RD as well.

How do you organize your time at work to make sure you accomplish all your responsibilities?

I always make a list of my priorities and I am constantly on the go.

What is an example of an innovative way you have made change at your facility and how did you implement it?

I was put directly in charge of the redesigning of my dining room to help enhance the dining atmosphere and experience. I also am a member of my facility’s Relay for Life team. I also help market out in our community by providing meals to our local senior center.

What was your first job in the foodservice industry?

Dietary Aide. Within two months, I was promoted to a Dietary Cook and then in less than a year I was offered the position of Dietary manager.

Who has been your biggest mentor in foodservice and how have they helped shape your career?

My RD has been my mentor. She was my preceptor while I took my online course for the CDM Credentialing Exam. She has also encouraged me to continue my education.

What are the biggest challenges you face in your position and how do you handle them?

Staffing. I am a working manager and try to lead my team by example. When someone calls in, I fill in the gap.

What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job is when my residents have the look of joy on their face from enjoying the food served to them.

How do you stay up to date with current innovations and trends?

The ANFP website.

How do you envision the foodservice industry in the next few years and foodservice?

I think residents' nutritional health and needs will be more in demand.

What is your advice to those just getting started in the foodservice industry?

We make a HUGE difference in our residents' health and life. We provide a basic need. Working as a CDM, CFPP is one of the greatest opportunities. Working in the foodservice industry is a rewarding career and the benefits from serving others outweigh any type of stress we may encounter.