In the heart of Humboldt County, where the redwoods meet the Pacific, a former wedding photographer has found an unexpected second act as a passionate advocate for sustainable seafood. Romeo Gil, Wild Planet Foods' dedicated Customer Service Specialist, brings a unique perspective to his role, blending his artistic eye with a deep commitment to ocean conservation. His journey from capturing life's precious moments to championing responsible fishing practices offers a compelling glimpse into the diverse talents that make up the Wild Planet team. As we dive into Romeo's story, we'll discover how his past experiences have shaped his approach to customer service and why he believes every purchase can be a vote for a healthier planet.
My journey to Wild Planet was anything but straightforward. For over two decades, I honed my craft as a wedding and portrait photographer, capturing moments of joy and connection. Little did I know that this experience would serve as the perfect training ground for my current role. You see, in both photography and customer service, the key is to see the world through someone else's eyes – to understand their needs, their concerns, and their aspirations.
As I transitioned from behind the lens to behind the customer service line, I brought with me a philosophy that has guided my entire career: go above and beyond. In photography, this meant delivering not just beautiful images, but an unforgettable experience. At Wild Planet, it means providing our customers with more than just exceptional products – it's about offering them a chance to be part of something bigger, a movement towards a healthier planet and more sustainable future.
One of the things that drew me to Wild Planet was the sincerity and vision behind the company's mission. I felt an immediate connection to the commitment to sustainable fishing practices and the willingness to take risks to do what's right. It's not just about selling seafood; it's about being a catalyst for transformation in an industry that desperately needs it.
Since joining the team, I've been continually impressed by the dedication and talent of my colleagues. There's a palpable energy here, a shared sense of purpose that makes coming to work each day a joy. Whether we're discussing new product ideas or brainstorming ways to better educate our customers, there's always a spirit of collaboration and innovation.
But beyond the delicious products, what truly excites me about Wild Planet is the opportunity to make a difference. Every time I speak with a customer, I see it as a chance to share our story, to help them understand why choosing sustainably caught seafood matters. It's not just about what ends up on their plate; it's about the health of our oceans, the livelihoods of responsible fishers, and the legacy we leave for future generations.
I often think about the impact we can have through our daily choices. As someone who loves nature – whether I'm paddleboarding on the ocean or hiking through the redwoods – I'm acutely aware of how our actions affect the environment. At Wild Planet, we're not just selling seafood; we're offering consumers a way to vote with their dollars for a more sustainable world.
There's still so much work to be done, so many people to reach. But every day, as I answer calls and emails, as I share our story with curious customers, I feel a sense of hope. I see a future where sustainable fishing practices are the norm, not the exception. And I'm proud to be part of a company that's leading the way.
Romeo Gil
Customer Service Specialist, Wild Planet Foods
As we delve deeper into Romeo's experience at Wild Planet Foods, we uncover the passion and purpose that drive his work. Through his responses, we gain insight into the company's commitment to sustainability, the challenges facing our oceans, and the power of informed consumer choices. Romeo's perspective offers a unique blend of personal experience and professional expertise, illuminating the human side of Wild Planet's mission.
Q: What is your favorite Wild Planet product and why?
A: My current favorite is our Mackerel Fillets in Extra Virgin Olive Oil. They've become a staple in my kitchen, especially when paired with udon noodles. The rich, flavorful oil from the can creates a delicious sauce, making for a quick, nutritious meal that I can't get enough of. Plus, I've come to appreciate mackerel even more than tuna for its taste and nutritional benefits. It's a versatile product that perfectly embodies Wild Planet's commitment to quality and sustainability. I used to love our Tuna Chorizo for its amazing spice blend, and while it's no longer available, it sparked my appreciation for bold flavors in our products.
Q: Do you have a favorite recipe using Wild Planet products?
A: One of my go-to recipes is a simple yet delicious salad using our sardines. I marinate them overnight with diced red onions and bell peppers in white wine vinegar. Then, I pour this mixture over a green salad and add some balsamic vinaigrette. The acidity of the vinegar complements the rich flavor of the sardines beautifully, and the crisp vegetables add a lovely texture. It's a dish that's both nutritious and satisfying, showcasing how our high-quality, sustainably caught fish can elevate even the simplest meals.
Q: Why do you enjoy working at Wild Planet?
A: Working at Wild Planet is more than just a job for me – it's an opportunity to be part of something truly meaningful. I'm inspired daily by the company's vision and sincerity, and by the dedication of my colleagues. There's a shared commitment here to doing what's right for the planet, which aligns perfectly with my personal values. I also appreciate the company culture, which encourages collaboration and values input from every team member, regardless of their role. It's a place where I feel my voice is heard and my contributions matter. The sense of camaraderie and shared purpose makes coming to work each day a joy.
Q: Can you share any pivotal turning points in Wild Planet's history?
A: While I've only been with the company for two years, I've witnessed significant growth and positive changes in that time. Our leadership team has implemented improvements that have made us more successful and profitable, while staying true to our core mission. We've seen exciting growth in conventional grocery stores, which is crucial for spreading awareness about sustainable fishing practices. Each step forward, whether it's introducing a new product or expanding our reach, feels like a pivotal moment in our journey to transform the seafood industry.
Q: What excites you most about Wild Planet's future?
A: What truly excites me is the potential for growth and increased awareness. As we expand our presence in conventional grocery stores, more people will have the opportunity to discover our products and learn about sustainable fishing practices. I believe that as consumers become more familiar with our mission, they'll understand the urgency of being mindful about how our food is harvested. Every new customer is a chance to educate and inspire, to create a ripple effect of positive change. I'm thrilled by the prospect of Wild Planet becoming a household name synonymous with quality, sustainability, and ocean conservation.
Q: What does sustainability mean to you and why is it important?
A: To me, sustainability is about responsible stewardship – ensuring that we use our resources in a way that preserves them for future generations. As an ocean lover and nature enthusiast, I believe we have a duty to protect our environment, particularly our oceans. Sustainability in fishing practices is crucial because it maintains the delicate balance of marine ecosystems while still allowing us to enjoy the bounty of the sea. It's about thinking long-term, considering the impact of our actions not just on today's catch, but on the health of our oceans for decades to come. At Wild Planet, sustainability isn't just a buzzword – it's the core of our mission and the driving force behind every decision we make.
Q: What do you wish consumers knew about fishing, ocean health or environmental sustainability?
A: I wish more consumers understood the devastating impact of destructive fishing practices and the concept of bycatch. Many people aren't aware of the differences between various harvesting methods and their effects on ocean ecosystems. For instance, the pole and line method we use at Wild Planet is far more sustainable than large-scale industrial fishing, but it's also more labor-intensive. I'd love for consumers to see the video on our website showing this method in action – it's eye-opening and starts important conversations about why these practices matter.
Additionally, I wish more people realized the power of their purchasing decisions. Every time we buy seafood, we're casting a vote for the kind of practices we support. By choosing sustainably caught products, consumers can drive positive change in the industry. It's not just about what ends up on our plates – it's about the health of our oceans, the livelihoods of responsible fishers, and the legacy we leave for future generations.
Q: Any special Wild Planet memories you'd like to share?
A: One of my fondest memories at Wild Planet is when we started having monthly all-hands meetings. These gatherings embody what makes our company special – the sense of camaraderie, the open exchange of ideas, and the feeling that every voice matters. I remember our founder sharing a story about how the name "Big Mac" was suggested by a secretary at McDonald's, emphasizing that great ideas can come from anyone in the company. This approach makes everyone feel valued and part of something bigger than themselves.
Another special aspect is the team environment we've cultivated. Whether we're in a production meeting in Eureka or gathered for an all-hands meeting, there's a palpable sense of shared purpose and mutual respect. These moments remind me why I love being part of the Wild Planet family and reinforce my belief in the importance of our mission.
Romeo Gil's journey from wedding photographer to customer service specialist at Wild Planet Foods is a testament to the power of aligning passion with purpose. His unique perspective, shaped by years of capturing life's precious moments, now informs his approach to educating consumers about sustainable seafood. Romeo's enthusiasm for Wild Planet's mission, his appreciation for the company's collaborative culture, and his deep commitment to ocean conservation shine through in every interaction. As Wild Planet continues to grow and reach new consumers, Romeo stands ready to share the company's story, one customer at a time. His experience reminds us that every purchase is an opportunity to vote for a healthier planet, and that true sustainability is about more than just what's on our plates – it's about preserving the beauty and bounty of our oceans for generations to come.
