Employee Spotlight: Matt Burton

Account Executive Matt Burton comes to Total Source with 20 years of experience in the foodservice industry, including as an owner/operator of CJ’s Bar and Grill in Billings, Montana.  Matt also has previous sales experience and possesses a track record of success, specifically leading CJ’s through the many challenges of the industry.

How did you get started in the foodservice business?

It was my first line of work in high school. I started with salad prep and dishes at the same local restaurant where my mom waited tables.

What was the journey that took you to CJ's and eventually to Total Source?

The same restaurant where I started working in high school was CJ's. I went to school to learn the business side of things with a goal of ownership and purchased CJ's out of college. After Covid, my wife and I decided I should pursue other opportunities that were more conducive to a family.

Where do you see the foodservice industry heading in the next five years?

My Grandpa always told me, “People are always going to eat, that’s not going away.” I truly believe if the foodservice industry can make it convenient and affordable for people to go out, they will continue to do so. Its an experience you can’t pick up at the store.

What do you feel is the most critical aspect for success in a restaurant or foodservice business?

The experience. Some of my fondest memories of growing up are at a restaurant. My family always went out to eat on Christmas Eve for as long as I can remember. I will always cherish those moments.

You live in Montana. How often do people ask you if life is like the TV show Yellowstone? And do you have any good Montana stories to share?

That buzz has quieted down in the last couple of years. But, it's funny how people think we live out here. I remember being in New York visiting family and their neighbor asked if I rode a horse to school! I think I’ve been on a horse twice in my life. Not very Yellowstone of me.

As far as stories go, just getting out with my Grandpa and fishing. Sometimes I forget just how beautiful this state is. He taught me to cherish nature and the rivers that flow through this state. Montana has some of the best fishing in the world.

Your coach for your son's sports teams. How are sports and foodservice similar?

Teamwork. Whether you’re working in a restaurant or other areas of foodservice the idea of utilizing the people around you to form a bond and achieve a common goal is truly amazing.

One meal. One place. Any dish. What would it be?

13 oz. New York strip cooked medium rare at Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse in Chicago. Can’t go wrong. The food is great, the experience is better.

Ready to start working with our expert Total Source team members? Take our Foodservice Assessment to get started: