The Viola Elevate Group Hires Culinary Sales Manager

The Viola Elevate Group has hired Lawrence Parks as its culinary sales manager. Parks brings more than 35 years of experience in the foodservice industry to the role. He spent 20 years in culinary operations and 15-plus years in foodservice equipment representation.

Parks started his career in the kitchen, working his way from line cook to executive chef. He has experience across many segments, including healthcare, higher education, institutional foodservice, multiunit operations, casual dining and fine dining.

“Lawrence has walked in the shoes of the people we serve every day: on the line, in the kitchen and running operations,” says Mitch Marcotte, managing partner, The Viola Elevate Group, in an August release. “He understands that an equipment decision isn’t just about the equipment; it’s about the people, the operation, and the result. That perspective will make him an important resource for our customers, our manufacturing partners and our own sales organization.”

In his new role, Parks will help customers evaluate equipment and emerging technologies through an operator’s lens. He’ll work closely with The Viola Elevate Group sales team and manufacturing partners to connect culinary expertise with the broader sales process.

The Viola Elevate Group serves New England, including Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont. It serves MAFSI Region 1.