Hunter Hying, CDM, CFPP, FMP

Sarasota, FL
ANFP Member since: 2016

Hunter Hying CDM, CFPP, FMP has worked in the hospitality industry for over 15 years working in any position from dishwasher to executive chef, to director, and every step in between. He is currently the Director of Nutrition for Encompass Health Rehab in Sarasota FL. 

Hunter's Recipe for Success 

1. Fail, and learn from it: One of the key ingredients for success as a CDM, CFPP is the ability to embrace failure and learn from it. As a manager, you will inevitably face challenges and setbacks. However, it is crucial to view these experiences as opportunities for growth and improvement. By analyzing what went wrong, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing necessary changes, you can continuously enhance your skills and knowledge, leading to greater success in managing dietary operations. 
2. Own the time you are at work: Success as a manager requires taking ownership of your time and being fully present during work hours. This means being punctual, organized, and focused on the tasks at hand. Say hello to all the employees when you get in, say goodbye when you leave. By effectively managing your time, you can prioritize responsibilities, delegate tasks when necessary, and ensure that all essential duties are completed efficiently. Taking ownership of your time also demonstrates professionalism and dedication, which can inspire and motivate your team to perform at their best. 
   
3. Say no and know your limits: As a CDM, CFPP, it is crucial to recognize your limits and be comfortable saying no when necessary. Success in management requires setting realistic expectations and boundaries, both for yourself and your team. By understanding your limitations and being assertive in declining tasks or projects that exceed your capacity, you can prevent burnout, maintain work-life balance, and ensure that the quality of your work remains consistently high. 
   
4. Have standards and raise them consistently: Setting and maintaining high standards is a fundamental aspect of success as a manager. As a CDM, CFPP, it is essential to establish clear expectations for your team regarding food safety, quality, and service. By consistently upholding these standards and holding your staff accountable, you create an environment of excellence and professionalism. Regularly evaluating and raising these standards ensures continuous improvement and contributes to the overall success of your dietary operations. 
   
5. Remind your staff that you can do all the jobs too: A successful manager understands the importance of leading by example. By demonstrating your ability to perform various tasks within the dietary department, you not only gain the respect and trust of your staff but also foster a sense of teamwork and camaraderie. When your team sees that you are willing to roll up your sleeves and work alongside them, it creates a positive and collaborative work environment, leading to increased productivity and success. 
   
6. Surround yourself with smarter and better people than you: Success as a manager is not solely dependent on your individual skills and knowledge but also on the collective expertise of your team. By surrounding yourself with individuals who possess diverse talents and strengths, you create a dynamic and innovative work environment. Embrace the opportunity to learn from your team members, encourage their professional growth, and empower them to contribute their unique perspectives. This collaborative approach fosters success by leveraging the collective intelligence and capabilities of your team. 
   
7. Have passion: Passion is a driving force behind success in any field, including healthcare foodservice management. As a CDM, CFPP, having a genuine passion for your work inspires enthusiasm, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. Passion fuels creativity, problem-solving, and a desire to continuously improve the dining experience for residents or patients. By infusing your work with passion, you not only enhance your own job satisfaction but also motivate and inspire your team to deliver exceptional service. 
   
8. Know your Why: Understanding your purpose and the underlying motivations behind your role as a CDM, CFPP is essential for long-term success. Knowing your "Why" provides clarity and direction, enabling you to make decisions aligned with your values and goals. It also helps you communicate your vision effectively to your team, fostering a sense of purpose and unity. When you have a clear understanding of your Why, you can navigate challenges with resilience, inspire others, and achieve meaningful outcomes. 
   
9. Have compassion for your staff: Success as a manager goes beyond achieving operational goals; it also involves cultivating positive relationships with your staff. Demonstrating compassion and empathy towards your team members creates a supportive and nurturing work environment. By understanding their needs, providing guidance, and recognizing their achievements, you foster loyalty, trust, and a sense of belonging. When your staff feels valued and supported, they are more likely to be motivated, engaged, and committed to the success of the dietary department. 
   
10. Be the positivity: As a CDM, CFPP, your attitude and demeanor have a significant impact on the overall work environment. Being a positive role model and maintaining a positive outlook, even during challenging times, can inspire and motivate your team. Positivity fosters resilience, creativity, and a can-do attitude, which are essential ingredients for success. By radiating positivity, you create an atmosphere of optimism, collaboration, and productivity, ultimately contributing to the success of your dietary operations.  

View the archive of My Recipe for Success articles at www.ANFPonline.org/myrecipeforsuccess. 

Nominate Yourself or a Fellow ANFP Member

Have you spent a career in foodservice? Share your wisdom and advice in a new feature from ANFP. My Recipe for Success is aimed at retired members or those who have spent a long career in foodservice. Share the biggest lessons you’ve learned to a lengthy, fruitful, and successful career in the non-commercial foodservice industry. 

Nomination Form

My Recipe for Success Archive

January 2021 - Dorothy Radermacher, CDM, CFPP
March 2021 - Wanda Dickson, CDM, CFPP
May 2021 - Tom Thaman, CDM, CFPP
July 2021 - Chef Richard "Nick" Nickless, CEC, CCA, AAC, CDM, CFPP
September 2021 - Karen Swift, CDM, CFPP
November 2021 - Paula Bradley, CDM, CFPP
January 2022 - Deborah McDonald, CDM, CFPP
March 2022 - Trish De Leo, CDM, CFPP
May 2022 - Deb Dawson, CDM, CFPP
July 2022 - Rosalind Davis, CDM, CFPP
September 2022 - Ken Owens, CDM, CFPP
November 2022 - Janice Hemel, CDM, CFPP
January 2023 - Bonna Brown, CDM, CFPP
March 2023 - Becky Massey, CDM, CFPP
May 2023 -  Colleen Zenk, CDM, CFPP
July 2023 - Joey Rost, CDM, CFPP
September 2023 - Milton McGowian, DBA, FMP, CDM, CFPP
November 2023 - Robert McKeon, CDM, CFPP