An all-around Michigander, Bill hails from Brighton and attended Alma College where he studied Religious Studies and Sociology. After attaining his bachelor’s degree, he ventured to Ann Arbor to attend grad school at the University of Michigan. It was during this time that he discovered Zingerman’s Deli. After 21 years of experience in a variety of roles, Bill recently joined the Zingerman’s Hall of Fame with a Lifetime Achievement Award!
Journey to Leadership
With a diverse background in service jobs – from late night shifts at a gas station to bartending – Bill brought a wealth of service experience with him when he started at the Deli in 2003. At the Deli, Bill has held many positions in different departments. Starting as a runner and busser, he worked his way through Front of House positions before moving to the Specialty Foods department to work behind the meat and cheese counter. When the opportunity for a management position as a Deli Leader arose, Bill was a perfect choice, and he’s been a vital part of the team since. Deli Leaders manage the Deli’s restaurant staff and operations and most importantly, ensuring that every guest receives both great food and great service.
Life Outside the Deli
Outside of the Deli, Bill’s days are spent chasing around his energetic three-year-old. If he is able to find a moment of spare time, he enjoys lacing up some cleats for soccer. True to the Deli’s spirit, Bill is also somewhat of a “foodie.” Some of his pantry staples at home include pasta and olive oil. Right now, he’s enjoying the Roi olive oil and Rustichella Bucatini, both of which you can pick up at the Deli. Anywhere he travels, he makes it a goal to try foods he can only get in that area. One of his favorite food memories was going to Liverpool House and Joe Beef in Montreal, where he says he had some of the most phenomenal meals – including Montreal smoked meat.
Bill’s Recommendations
If you’re ever undecided on a sandwich at the Deli, Bill’s go-to recommendation is anything with corned beef – an iconic favorite for a reason. He says “you might as well go for what we’re known for!” His favorite season at the Deli is summer– as a lover of both Ann Arbor and the Deli, it’s a perfect time to be outside on our patio and take in all the city has to offer. Next time you stop by, make sure to try one of the Deli’s seven corned beef sandwich options and say “hello” to Bill!
5 Fun Facts
Bill got to tour the Usinger Meat Factory in Milwaukee, WI when they found out he worked at Zingerman’s. (They don’t ever offer tours!)
In middle school, his favorite classes were Woodshop and Home Economics, which he felt taught him more than any other subjects.
Bill has no current sandwich named after him, but if he did, he would want to re-introduce roast beef to the menu.
Bill often brews a pot of tea for Front of House staff, so they can try different teas the Deli has to offer.
Bill thinks the best way to spend your time at the Deli is to visit the cheese counter and taste the wide variety of cheeses available
