Illustration by Jill DeGroff

When Steven C. Anderson was selected as CEO and President of the National Restaurant Association in 1999, he immediately set out to create a strong collective voice for the restaurant industry. Whether in putting his political know-how into play in the halls of power in Washington , D.C. , or taking the likes of Hallmark or Imodium to task for defamation of the industry's character, Anderson has made his a proactive role. With the literate and capable Anderson pulling back the hammer, this NRA has armed the people-restaurant people-with an advocate commensurate with their primary status in the nation's economy and culture.

How does a one-size-fits-all organization effectively represent restaurants from fast food to fine dining?
When I was selected for this position, I was charged by the board to focus on the industry and enhance the perception of commonality between all members. Restaurants compose the largest private sector with $440 billion in sales, but we have Balkanized the industry into segments. Benjamin Franklin said, "We must all hang together, or assuredly we shall all hang separately." Concentrating on common concerns has allowed us to give a voice to the industry.

What restaurant experience do you have?
I got a job at a Fred Harvey's by O'Hare for minimum wage when I was in high school. Then I worked in food service at Cornell College in Iowa.  

Considering the substantial failure rate for restaurants, what advice would you give would-be restaurateurs?
I am always quick to point out that I am an executive of a restaurant association, not a restaurateur. I don't even attempt to give advice on the incredibly difficult task of running a successful restaurant.  

How does being CEO of an association differ from heading a corporation?
There is an incredible amount of variety in what the executives of associations do-government relations, lobbying to pass legislation and dealing with intangibles. Plus, we have to build a consensus of membership as well as satisfy a board of directors. Also, in our level of pay.there's no " Anderson " dorm at Cornell College.

How many of the country's 878,000 restaurants claim membership in the NRA?
Around 315,000 restaurants. That is a 43% increase over the last four years. Simply by joining your state association you become a national member.

Can you make Outback Steakhouse stop using that annoying "No Rules, Just Right" slogan?
I don't think I can help you there.  

Have high-profile chefs helped increase new membership?
Celebrity chefs have helped to enhance the image of the restaurant industry and increased enrollment down to the community college level. They certainly have added stature and panache and made people aware of culinary career opportunities.
 
How does the NRA hope to instill tolerance and a sense of unity in an industry as diverse as food service?
The restaurant industry has such a positive message-we have more minority managers than any industry. We work with ethnic, cultural and social groups that most other associations don't deal with. There is no better place to achieve the American Dream.

How do you explain the growth and growing prominence of the restaurant industry?
The restaurant industry has had 13 consecutive years of growth. We live in an activity-rich/time-poor society. Twenty years ago, eating out was a luxury; now, it's an essential part of life. Increased quality and increased exposure have also fueled growth. 

How has the "no smoking" issue played out through the states?
Obviously, there is quite a wave throughout the country right now. We suggest it should be left to the restaurant. Policies are generally set at the state level, so as a national organization we are not as active in the debate.

What is your favorite Charlton Heston movie?
A TV movie, A Man For All Seasons, about Sir Thomas More. Some people see "NRA" and show up looking for Chuck and they get me. 

How about the proposed "guest worker" immigration policy?
I am supportive of immigration reform. I'm not sure how far the proposal will go-it is a politically hot topic and there are not a lot of profiles in courage on Capitol Hill. We need to look at long term numbers and demographics to address worker shortage issues in our industry.  

How are food-labeling legislation and obesity lawsuits affecting the industry?
Mandatory nutrition labeling just doesn't work. A sub shop with 10 sandwich options would need to provide 3.6 million labels for all of the combos. With 15 options, it jumps to 1.3 trillion labels. That's a little too much to ask.

The industry has shown a willingness to participate in voluntary programs to educate about nutrition. Even today, 76% of meals are still eaten at home, so it seems unfair to blame restaurants for obesity. Marketplace solutions and education-not regulation-will be the answer. Just because we have electricity doesn't mean you have to electrocute yourself.
 
Do you have any predictions for the industry?
We're very bullish here. I like to say my long-term projection is: There will be a day when our kids will tell their kids, "We used to buy raw food and cook it at home."