“It’s rewarding to work with a team (a family) at McFarling that truly cares about the work that we all do and how what we do impacts so many people. ”

Joe is a buyer at McFarling Foods, managing the Beef, Pork, Chicken and Dairy categories. Over the past 3+ years, he has learned to balance the market swings and our customers’ purchases.

“Things change daily – the protein industry has become VERY unpredictable. What once was a simple phone call to order what you need, has now become three, four or five calls. I have to be very creative in my daily duties.”

Let’s get to know Joe:

Best Advice You’ve Ever Received?

Never ask someone to do something that you are not willing to do yourself!

What was your first paying job?

I had two – I washed windows in a business park and I microfilmed patient records for doctors’ offices.

Do you have any mentors in your professional life?

My first manager, Doug Godfrey. He showed me that to be a quality person and to be a valued asset to the company you work for - you must learn daily, make a difference, and always treat people with respect.

Family life—married, kids, grandkids?

I am married and it will be 33 years this year to my wife Pamela. We have two children – Jacob who will be 28 and Hannah who will be 23 this year.

What’s something you’re proud of?

My family.

What’s your favorite food?

What’s your favorite food? I have several, but when we go out to eat, I love a good ribeye steak. If I am cooking at home, I love to make homemade pizza.

Who inspires you?

My father inspired me as he worked various jobs, traveled a lot and was away from our family for weeks at a time to provide for the family. This said, no matter how long he was away, when he was home, he made the time for each of us and showed that working hard also included your family.

Do you have any hobbies? Any hidden talents?

I play golf. Not good at it, but I play. I used to play the Cello.

Do you have any pets?

1 Dog (Australian Shepard – Piper) and 2 cats (Bailey and Sydney – both are 14 years old)

Are you a sports fan? Who are your favorite teams?

Yes, I am – Pittsburgh Penguins, Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh Pirates and The Ohio State University.

Have you ever met anyone famous?

Yes – Bob Griese, Mario Lemieux, Sydney Crosby.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I want to travel more! But I will also be continuing to work for McFarling Foods.

How would your friends and family describe you?

They would describe me as always willing to assist them and fun to be around (Especially during hockey season!)