Executive Insights: Frank Trevisani, BSC, Spartan Chemical Company
A native of Utica, N.Y., Frank Trevisani has been associated with the janitorial and sanitation industry for more than 40 years. Trevisani graduated from St. Bonaventure University in Olean, N.Y., with a Bachelor of Science degree. This seasoned professional has a wealth of experience from his years of work in distribution and the building service contractor industry. He has held many titles including vice president of technical support at ISS/One Source where he ran the supply division, while concurrently composing production and equipment standard programs for 40,000 employees. Additionally, he worked for national accounts at Clark Floor Machine. Currently, he serves as Director of Building Service Contractors for Spartan Chemical.
Trevisani has also managed a single distributorship giving him the unique ability to see and experience firsthand many different facets of the industry. Trevisani is an industry leader in the BSC market, most notably being selected by Cleaning & Maintenance Management Magazine as an Industry Leader Dream Team Member. Trevisani has been married for 48 years to his wife Sandra. They have four children and seven grandchildren.
BSCAI sat down with Trevisani to discuss his career and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
BSCAI What are some trends you see developing in the building service contracting industry?
Frank Trevisani, BSC: Our industry, due to the past pandemic, will finally get its due. For too long we were considered a commodity and not considered an intricate part in cleaning for health. What we do every day has a direct effect in keeping a healthy environment. We cannot and should not compromise cleaning. Another trend I see is that deep cleaning will be the norm and spot cleaning a thing of the past. Touch points will be an integral part of daily cleaning along with disinfecting as either a daily function or an additional service once proper cleaning is done. We should now push “The Value of Clean” as today’s norm.
BSCAI: How would you describe your leadership style?
FT: I believe in people. Trust and credibility are the foundation to my management style. My colleagues and my customers are my friends and I try to treat them as I would treat family.
BSCAI: What is one challenge you’ve experienced in your career, and how did you handle it?
FT: My challenge was to get people to understand that there is no template on dealing with BSCs. It is a very reactionary business and I tell distributors to have inventory, ”just in case, not just in time.” You never know when they will need it, but when they call you better have it quickly. I found early in my career that you have to react very quickly in this industry or people will go somewhere else. Distributor salespeople must be problemsolvers and not order takers. I tended to gravitate to those that reacted the best in time of need.
BSCAI: Any advice for new BSCs coming into the industry?
FT: Partner with people that have your best interest at hand. Those that will be there when you need them whether it be after business hours or on weekends. Keep relationships solid and maintain trust and credibility with everyone you do business with. I also highly recommend industry peer groups like BSCAI that keep you up to date and interactive with your peers.
BSCAI: What is the best piece of advice you’ve received in your career?
FT: You are only as good as your word; under promise and over perform. Trust and credibility are foundations for a successful life and career.