Nueske’s has been producing the highest quality smoked meats for over 80 years. Business success over that long requires more than just following a good recipe; it requires a united team built on core principles that pushes itself to be the very best it can. It requires open, honest communication built on trust. Leadership’s role is in establishing the behavioral aspects important for every employee to emulate while continually focusing on where it will and can take them and the company; the journey is the reward! Glenn Gazzolo has been with Nueske’s since 2005 and is now President with responsibility for maintaining the quality culture established by founder R.C. Nueske and his son, Bob. Glenn will talk about the company origins and how it has evolved while maintaining focus on Bob’s “Golden Three” principles: respect, integrity, and trust. Keeping these principles in the forefront for every employee was no accident as everything expanded: product lines, markets, facilities, and the workforce. Glenn will also talk about the challenges of meeting ever-changing consumer expectations and tastes, increased regulatory requirements, and business operational improvements. Over many years and through hard work, Nueske’s has built a brand synonymous with quality. The company’s approach to leadership and employee engagement have been the keys.
GLENN GAZZOLO Glenn is President of Nueske’s Applewood Smoked Meats based on Wittenberg, WI since 2015. He joined the company in 2005 as Director of Mail Order Operations and then moved up through a variety of roles including Corporate Purchasing and Logistics, Chief Operating Officer, and Executive VP. Gazzolo graduated from Wilkes University in Wilkes Barre, PA with a B.S. in Business Management. He began his career in catalog operations for Popular Club Plan in Passaic, NJ and gained experience in roles involving distribution, transportation, materials management, and high-volume operations and logistics with companies including Multigraphics, Simon & Schuster, John Crane, and The Popcorn Factory.
Glenn loves working for a family owned business because of its tight-knit culture and the Midwest work ethic that has built and sustained the company for 87 years. He recognizes the importance of quality to manufacturing food products in terms of establishing a strong system of checks and balances based on attention to detail, respect, integrity, and trust. For Glenn, quality and business success are founded on building great teams with heart and passion by instilling self-accountability, open communication, and commitment. In dealing with the typical business challenges, including the current COVID-19 pandemic, Glenn relies on what he learned from the company’s founder, Bob Nueske, who’s focus was always on striving for perfection (and settle for excellence), being “there” for employees, and taking a long-term view.
Gazzolo is a native of New Milford, NJ and was surprised to find himself in the Midwest, but happy because it placed him in the thick of U.S. hockey. He remains a huge NY Rangers fan; along with the Giants, Mets, and Knicks. Outside of work, Glenn and his wife Leslie, have two daughters (one of whom played college hockey) and enjoy skiing, hiking, traveling, and great food and wine.