Jim Catanese

“Looking back on how it all began, I realize I was just a 22-year kid who loved the food business and wanted to do something on my own. I had no money, and I needed a job.”

After working several jobs in the industry through the years, with much determination and the support of his family, Jim, and his brother John started Waterfront Seafood in 1982. Waterfront was built (and grew) on the foundation and belief of always providing quality product and unmatched service which still holds true under Jim’s guidance today. After Waterfront Seafoods was sold to a local meat company in Cleveland, Jim and John then started a seafood import company, distributing to many parts of the country for a couple of years.

Missing the distribution side of the business, Jim started Catanese Classic Seafood beside his brother, John Catanese and Kevin Durkin. Since the beginning, Catanese Classic has grown into the area’s leader in premium quality seafood, meats, and specialties. Today, Classic employs over 100 people and is the parent company to Catanese Classic Seafood, Catanese Classic Meats, and Chef Cube Classics.

Jim takes his role at Catanese Classic very personally, working daily to build new relationships while maintaining current partnerships. It is his top priority that Catanese Classic always provides top quality products with excellent customer service.  As Classic continues to grow, one thing remains the same which has been Jim’s key to success since day one, “Treat people like you want to be treated.” Through his dedication, compassion and love for the industry, Jim has set a strong example to his employees and those around him.