June Q&A Interview

Q&A with Entegra's Director, Program Implementation, Shiva Manishankar

Is your business continuity plan up to date in case disaster strikes?

Shiva Manishankar, Entegra's Director, Program Implementation, has led her team through hurricane seasons, wildfires, floods, and other natural disasters. Manishankar and her team know first-hand how having a solid business continuity plan can help you get back up and running after disaster strikes.

Why should operators make a plan and check it each year?

“The case for planning is clear,” said Manishankar. “We’re seeing more frequent flooding events, wildfires that consume more acreage, and hurricanes that are bigger and more expensive than ever. Planning ensures that your distributors know what you’d need to continue operating before, during, and after an emergency. Planning also encourages operators to take precautions and preemptive steps ahead of time.”

What are some basic steps that businesses should take and how does Entegra advise clients?

“Each season, we remind operators about Entegra’s Disaster Preparedness Guide that has resources and checklists to help prepare.

Other steps that you should take include checking and replenishing your emergency first aid kit, water, and food supplies. You should also understand the local hazards and risks and learn what you need to do to get ready for and respond to them. But this is just the beginning. Our team can work with you so that you have guidance and input to help you assess your situation.”

What’s the best advice you can give to hospitality businesses as we go into hurricane and wildfire season?

Entegra’s team is well-versed in quickly stabilizing business operations, whether that means working with distributors to get supplies delivered or finding services needed for cleanup once a natural disaster is over.

Contact an Entegra representative to talk about working with our talented team of procurement professionals.