EFTI ADVISORY BOARD CHAIR: MR. BOB SCHALOW

EFTI ADVISORY BOARD CHAIR: MR. BOB SCHALOW

Bob Schalow Headshot.jpg

Mr. Robert (Bob) Schalow is the new Chair-Elect for the EFTI Industry Advisory Board starting July 1, 2021. He is a Gator Alum and currently the VP of Franchise Operations at Jack in the Box. Learn more about Bob and join us welcoming him to the board.

Why did you choose to serve on the EFTI Board?

I love being a Florida Gator and want to give back to my University that has given me so much. As a graduate of the THEM program and a restaurant executive I am more than willing to share any of my experience and knowledge that the program would find useful.

 

What excites you about the THEM Program?

I love the direction of the program under the guidance of Dean Reid and Dr. Fu. Travel, Hospitality and Event Management is a major economic driver in the state of Florida and there are many opportunities in this field that will require the leaders being developed by the program now.

The new Artificial Intelligence program is a game changer. This cutting edge technology is not only allowing us to rethink the guest experience but also to accelerate learning to adapt to ever changing business environments.

 

Where types of travel do you like to do?

For a family vacation we really like traveling to Hawaii as it feels like we are far enough away to let go but also convenient enough to get there in under 6 hours. There is a ton of outdoor activities so there is always something that a member of the family will enjoy.

My family also travels extensively for athletics. My daughters are in high school and are looking to play at the D1 level in their sports which are swimming and field hockey. I really enjoy having the opportunity to travel with them to swim meets and tournaments and watch them compete.

 

What is the best piece of advice you were given?

If you are in the service and hospitality industry it is essential that you take care of and develop you teams as they take care of your guests.

Greg Creed (Former CEO of Yum! Brands) put it this way – “The guest experience will never exceed the team member experience.)