From Parking Cars to Producing People-pleasing Pizzas
Metz ‘pizza artiste’ OJ Morrison elevates dining experience at Erie County Medical Center
DALLAS, PA – In the dining room at the Erie County Medical Center, operated by Metz Culinary Management, the pizza and stromboli station has become the first stop for staff, patients, and visitors, thanks to Chef Jermel “OJ” Morrison. His love of crafting creative pizzas and strombolis combined with his outgoing personality has resulted in a remarkable 22% increase in sales for the station!
Behind the Jamaica-born chef’s success as the resident ‘pizza artiste’ is a remarkable story of talent and opportunity. Originally working as a parking attendant at the medical center, OJ caught the attention of a Metz chef who recognized his people skills and encouraged him to join the team. After undergoing training and rotating through various roles, OJ discovered a passion for pizza-making.
He was in the right place at the right time. In addition to recently overhauling its pizza and stromboli recipes, Metz has also added several new managers to their roster at Erie County Medical Center and Kaleida Health. To ensure that everyone, including the new managers, were set up for success, Metz conducted a five-week Retail Bootcamp designed specifically for all the Kaleida Health accounts.
Because of his flair for pizza making, OJ was chosen to be included in this training. Under the guidance of Chef John Selick IV, Metz’s Director of Culinary, OJ took his culinary and retailing skills to the next level.
“OJ exemplifies excellence in both culinary creativity and guest engagement,” said Theresa Butler, Metz District Manager. “It’s not just about the pizza; it’s about the experience. Many of our guests stop by just to chat with OJ, even if they aren’t ordering. He has become a staple of our operation, and his dedication is a testament to Metz’s commitment to fostering talent and creating memorable dining experiences.”
Beyond the success of the pizza station, OJ’s story reflects Metz Culinary Management’s culture of investing in people. “There’s talent everywhere, and our goal is to discover it, develop it, and help it shine,” Ms. Butler said. “OJ is a perfect example of that. His passion is contagious, and his impact on our team and guests is exceptional.”
OJ’s signature pizzas, including the ever-popular Buffalo chicken and Philly cheesesteak varieties, continue to draw crowds, with customers oten lining up for their favorites. Looking ahead, OJ remains excited about future opportunities and continuing to bring joy, one slice at a time.
About Metz Culinary Management
Metz Culinary Management (Metz) was established in 1994 by entrepreneur John C. Metz as a custom dining management service company with a “Guest First” philosophy serving a variety of market segments, including healthcare, corporate dining, higher education and independent and public-school dining. With the energy and foodservice experience of his son, CEO Jeff Metz, the company continues to expand its footprint and bring innovation to the food service management business. Rated one of the top 15 foodservice management companies in the country, Metz collaborates with its clients to deliver restaurant-inspired experiences to each and every guest. Covering fast casual to fine dining, Metz embraces high standards for ethical responsibility, environmental stewardship and healthy lifestyle through the creation of healthy meals that support wellness.
About the Erie County Medical Center (ECMC) Corporation: The ECMC Corporation was established as a New York State Public Benefit Corporation and since 2004 has included an advanced academic medical center with 573 inpatient beds, on- and off-campus health centers, more than 30 outpatient specialty care services and Terrace View, a 390-bed long-term care facility. ECMC is Western New York’s only Level 1 Adult Trauma Center, as well as a regional center for burn care, behavioral health services, transplantation, medical oncology and head & neck cancer care, rehabilitation, and a major teaching facility for the University at Buffalo. Most ECMC physicians, dentists and pharmacists are dedicated faculty members of the university and/or members of a private practice plan. More Western New York residents are choosing ECMC for exceptional patient care and patient experiences – the difference between healthcare and true care ™.