Bob Evans, the owner and operator of Bob Evans and Mimi’s Café restaurants, recently hosted the Multicultural Foodservice and Hospitality Association’s Diversity Network Event “Navigating the Corporate Landscape: Personal Brand Marketing in a Multicultural World.” More than 125 attendees learned how all individuals regardless of gender or race can leverage common brand management principles to effectively market themselves.

Bob Evans chairman & CEO Steve Davis and Columbus mayor Michael Coleman kicked the program off with some opening comments and welcomed the keynote speaker, Dr. Robert Rodriguez, a noted expert on diversity who writes the “Leadership” column in Diversity Executive Magazine and has published more than 50 articles on various diversity and human resource topics.

Dr. Rodriguez explained the strength of diversity and how to capitalize on your personal brand. It was followed by a panel discussion led by industry leaders of MFHA corporate member companies including Bob Evans, Wendy’s, White Castle, and Red Roof Inn.

Attendees learned what a personal brand is and why it is integral in career success and how to market oneself via proven brand management strategies. Dr. Rodriguez gave tips for creating internal “brand loyalty” and attendees took away an action plan on how to use networking to expand their reach and influence. They also learned how to leverage diversity to enhance one’s distinctiveness and relevance in the workplace.

“We are thrilled to host this event in partnership with Bob Evans and to offer new opportunities for industry professionals to grow and learn,” says Gerry Fernandez, MFHA’s president. “As part of our new more focused strategy, MFHA has been hosting professional development seminars since 2009 and we will be offering additional events in the fall.”