Why I Came, Why I Stayed: Chris Lett finds joy and purpose in his work at Methodist as a Food and Nutrition Services leader

In “Why I Came, Why I Stayed,” you’ll get to know people who are making a difference every day at Methodist and how they contribute to providing The Meaning of Care. To explore career opportunities at Methodist, visit bestcare.org/jobs.

Chris Lett, MBA, CDM, CFPP
Service Executive for Food and Nutrition Services
Methodist Health System

Tell us more about yourself.

I have been in the food service industry for 30 years, with 17 of those being in health care food service. I began my career in hotels and restaurants before transitioning to health care. I have my associate degree in culinary arts management from Iowa Western Community College, my bachelor’s degree in business from Bellevue University and my MBA from the University of Iowa. Go Hawks! 

I started with Methodist as the director of Food and Nutrition Services at Methodist Women’s Hospital on March 30, 2020, when the pandemic was in full swing. That was the day masking became mandatory, so I didn’t know what anyone’s full face looked like for a while. After about 18 months, I became the director of Food and Nutrition Services at Methodist Hospital. In June 2023, I became the service executive for Food and Nutrition Services for the health system.

I have been married to my wife for 15 years, and we have raised five children together and have four grandchildren. We also have three cats named after Star Wars characters. In my free time I like to play disc golf and spend time with my family. When I travel, I enjoy hiking in our national parks and visiting new places.

What brought you to Methodist?

Culture. I had previously worked at a different health system that once had a great culture. During my time there, I felt like the dedication to keep that culture thriving had waned. I was hoping to find a place that brought back the joy and purpose of work. I found that in Methodist.

What’s kept you here?

The people. It starts with leadership and filters throughout the organization. I truly enjoy coming to work and having the opportunity to have a positive impact on those we serve.

Do you have any favorite Methodist memories?

Piggybacking off the attraction of the organization and what keeps me coming back, my favorite memory was when I was asked to do “Getting to know a leader” at the management forum for Methodist Hospital and Women’s Hospital. During the forum, when Josie Abboud would ask people up to come to the podium to speak, she would say, “Come on down!” Me, being a child of the ‘80s, would always be reminded of “The Price is Right.” Given this opportunity, I just had to ask, “Would it be all right if I come up to the podium to “The Price is Right” theme song?” Bless her heart, because she agreed. I did the crowd run just like on the show, and Josie greeted me with a double high-five like I was about to bid on the next product. How cool is that?

Have you had a mentor or colleague who stood out during your time at Methodist?

I have truly enjoyed each leader I have had the opportunity to work with. Matt Bohacek brought me on and really helped to develop my leadership approach. Bill Vobejda believed in me enough to give me the opportunity in my current position, and I will be forever grateful. Shanna Stofer continues to challenge me as well as provide support for the things I’d like to accomplish. Each person in their own way has helped me to grow and flourish within the organization.

What should people know about Methodist?

People should know that we have the best food and service in the metro! I would be remiss if I didn’t take this opportunity to thank my teams. The management team in the food service department, along with our front-line staff, are the backbone of why I feel we have such a solid operation. We are here to serve our patients and their families. We are also here to serve everyone else who is serving our patients and families. We are here to take care of people, and there is no greater responsibility or sense of accomplishment. We are The Meaning of Care!