Name: Irene Szyliowicz
Title: President
Born: London, England
What do you do for Mont Blanc Gourmet?
I am in charge of Export sales and service.
How did you get your start in this field?
I got my start at the beginning of this company, and the chocolate business my son and I created in 1985, then called The French Confection. We made chocolate candies, which we learned to manufacture in Paris, France. This business evolved out of that one.
What’s the best part about your job?
The best part of my job is going to trade shows where I get to meet my customers in person and, hopefully, attract new ones.
What do you order at your favorite café?
I usually order a decaf cappuccino with skimmed milk.
Last great idea you’ve come across?
I was visiting a friend in a nursing home who had multiple sclerosis and could no longer communicate. I took her hand and realized she had the power to press mine. I could then ask her questions which demanded “yes” or “no” answers, and she would press my hand whenever she agreed. I finally found a way to communicate with her!
