Sodexo USA Careers Blog

Back to School: Food Service Operations Preparing for Students

noreply@blogger.com (Trish Freshwater) — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 20:04:00 +0000

As summer winds down, colleges across the country are preparing for students who will move into dorm rooms where they will rely on the school to provide their basic shelter, food, safety and wellbeing. Preparing for the students means bringing a campus to life after three months of limited operations.

“We have a small city that turns on and off throughout the year,” said Andy Allen, General Manager for Sodexo’s dining services at Brandeis University. “It’s like push staring a locomotive.”

From hiring staff to setting menus and ordering food and other supplies, there is much work to be done in preparation for the 2,800 students who register for the boarding plan at Brandeis, plus those who purchase food at the campus’s retail dining options.

Andy Allen
General Manager
Sodexo Dining Services
Brandeis University

“We have two dining halls, including one that is the largest integrated kosher dining hall at a college campus in the country, plus a faculty center that provides lunch Monday through Friday,” explained Allen. “We also have retail options, including a Dunkin Donuts, two Starbucks, locally branded coffee shops, a campus pub, a food court with a kosher deli, sushi, burrito and sub options. We also provide catering for campus events.”

Supporting these operations are about 150 union employees, supervisors and chefs – all led by Allen, who began his own 30-year culinary and food service career in universities as a production manager at Brandeis in 1988. Next, he served as an executive chef at Harvard for 14 years before transitioning into a leadership role there and then at Simmons College. Life came full circle, however, when he accepted the GM role back at Brandeis, starting his first day with Sodexo on his birthday in January 2016.

“It was really amazing during my interview for the job,” said Allen. “When we did a walkthrough of the operations, many of the people I had worked with back in the 80s and 90s were still there. My hiring manager was shocked to see so many people stopping to say hello to me as we toured the facilities.”

Turnover at Brandeis is low, where many of Sodexo’s employees currently stay for 10-14 years.

“If you have passion and the right attitude, with the willingness to learn and do the job, you will find success here,” said Allen. “We have a union environment where documentation, consistency and fairness are important. There is a lot to learn. I provide opportunities for staff and chefs to learn how to be a good manager and grow their careers. I tell them that if they put in the work, you could be promoted in two years, if that’s what they want to do.”

Brandeis University is located in the greater Boston area where Sodexo offers multiple locations to grow your career.

“When we look at employee advancement opportunities, there are 100 accounts within 50 miles of us,” said Allen. “You can live locally and gain a diverse background building your career with Sodexo. In fact, you can even choose to find jobs around the country and still build your career with one company.”

Are you ready to go back to school? Sodexo’s K-12 schools and universities accounts across the country are currently hiring to support operations for the 2019-2020 school year. Find your job today!

When Women Win, We All Win

noreply@blogger.com (Sodexo Careers) — Fri, 09 Aug 2019 14:13:00 +0000

What gets you excited about your job and the organization you work for?

For me, one of the many things I was looking forward to when I joined Sodexo earlier this year was the opportunity to join an EBRG (Employee Business Resource Group), so I was thrilled to find out I was named one of the Sodexo Pan Asian Network Group’s (PANG) Nam Codus scholarship recipients.

This scholarship awarded me the opportunity to attend a conference of my choice, and I was intentional in choosing an event that gave me a chance to network with underrepresented minority talent (that’s the diversity recruiter in me!) but also an experience I was passionate to bring back to my team.

As an Indian American navigating the start of my career, it has been challenging to find women with similar cultural backgrounds in leadership and executive positions. I felt compelled to attend a conference where I would be among amazing, trailblazing women, while exploring progressive solutions for our workplaces and our communities.

When I learned about the resilient personal and professional journey of Subha Barry, president of Working Mother Media and a fellow native of India, I knew I wanted to attend the 2019 Working Mother Media Multicultural Women's National Conference in NYC. This was a powerful two-day meeting filled with high-potential women across various industries and diverse cultural backgrounds coming together to engage, interact and celebrate with each other.

The theme of this year's conference was to Level Up and encourage women of all walks of life to step out of their comfort zones, own their identities and elevate their level (I think Ciara would approve!). The conference provided a safe and open environment for candid conversation and stimulating dialogue through various breakout sessions, fireside talks, workshops, coaching and creative storytelling. It was also great to see male representation in these conversations on how they can become better advocates and allies.

We also recognized and celebrated the Top 50 Best Companies for Multicultural Women, those who have a shared commitment to empower women and invest in their success. I clapped extra loud - and may have hooted - when Sodexo was called to stage to receive their award! I am especially proud to be part of a company that continues to foster initiatives like Better Tomorrow 2025, committing to gender equality and actively striving to have women represent at least 40 percent of our leaders by 2025.

I left the conference feeling truly inspired and want to give a huge thank you to Sodexo, PANG and Working Mother Media for allowing me to be part of this great experience that I will carry forward.

In the powerful words of Viola Davis, let’s remind each other often that "when women support women, amazing things can happen."
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Ready to explore opportunities with a company that’s committed to diversity, inclusion and growth? Search Sodexo’s current management openings!

Post by Roshni Patel, Sodexo Sr. Recruiter, as part of our Recruiter Series.

Show vs. Tell: How Sodexo Uses Social Media to Showcase Company Culture

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen Jacobs) — Mon, 05 Aug 2019 15:29:00 +0000

There’s no doubt that the evolution of social media has drastically changed the way companies communicate with candidates. While LinkedIn was designed for professionals, platforms like Facebook and Twitter started with a social focus but have now become key communication channels for job seekers. When you add in Instagram, YouTube and even Snapchat, candidates can get a candid look inside a company’s culture, helping them make informed decisions when deciding to apply.

In 2007, Sodexo started using social media to show candidates our culture because showing is so much more powerful than telling! Sharing day-in-the-life stories, industry news, Q&A’s and engaging in conversations about working for Sodexo has helped candidates get a deeper look into our company for over a decade. Job seekers have more tools than ever to help them make career decisions and being early adopters in social media has helped Sodexo take the lead in today’s job market.

In fact, we were recently ranked sixth in the US by Potentialpark for our use of social media to engage with candidates! We also ranked number 25 (in a list of over 140 companies) for being a talent-friendly company that excels in digital talent communication.

The Potentialpark rankings show which employers are the best at understanding the needs and preferences of talent worldwide, across four major career channels, including social media – and we’re proud to be on the list.

Speaking of showing not telling – now that you’ve HEARD about our social channels, it’s time to see for yourself what Sodexo has to offer! Connect with Sodexo Careers on the following channels OR text SODEXO to 972-11 to get a feel for what it would be like to join our team:

→ Facebook

→ Twitter

→ LinkedIn

→ Instagram

→ YouTube

Ready to apply? Search hourly and professional job openings from our newly redesigned website!

Sodexo Chefs Dish the Details on Why They Love Their Jobs

noreply@blogger.com (Sodexo Careers) — Fri, 02 Aug 2019 13:00:00 +0000

Whether you’re a culinary student or a seasoned professional, finding a career that fits your lifestyle is important. At Sodexo, we’re committed to helping you find the perfect fit. That’s why our recruitment team is hitting the road and heading to sunny Orlando for the ACF National Convention on August 6, 2019 to meet talented chefs just like you!

How can Sodexo fit into your lifestyle? Here are three examples of how Sodexo offers unique experiences for everyone:

Making a Difference
When you join a team at Sodexo, you can make a difference in your local community. By raising money for people struggling to meet basic needs, Sodexo Chef Jude Jerome was named one of the Heroes of Everyday Life and was given a $5,000 grant to support a local charity of his choice.

International Flavors and Culture
The Global Chef Program shares the international flavors of Sodexo and allows our chefs to take their taste buds on an adventure. Each year, Sodexo locations around the world host international Sodexo chefs that share their culture and recipes. Sodexo Chef Kelly Graffius traveled to France for an experience she will never forget.

Creativity and Innovation
Sodexo provides the flexibility to be innovative and creative on the job. Sodexo Chef Michael Gagnon expresses how Sodexo has allowed him to challenge himself and continue to advance in a career that he loves. His latest creation is the Ice Cream Panini Sandwich, which has taken his unit and the local news by storm!

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If you think Sodexo fits your lifestyle and you are headed to the ACF National Convention, don’t forget to visit our booth on August 6! Plus, when you stop by our table, you’ll have the chance to win a bottle of Aged Balsamic Vinegar.

ACF National Convention
August 4-8, 2019
Orlando, FL
Expo Booth 208

If you're unable to attend or want to get a head start on finding a culinary career that fits your lifestyle, tell us more about yourself today!

Ambition and Compassion Create a Recipe for Success for one Dietary Aide

noreply@blogger.com (Trish Freshwater) — Thu, 18 Jul 2019 15:44:00 +0000

On her first day of work with Sodexo as a Dietary Aide, Timika Hooper realized that she was quite a bit younger than many of her colleagues. But she didn’t let that intimidate her. Instead, she saw an opportunity to learn and grow.

“The team was welcoming,” she explained. “They were seasoned workers who had been there for 20 years and I was new, in my 20s. They taught me about teamwork and helped make the transition into my role easier.”

“When she first got here 10 years ago, she wanted to learn everything,” said Holly Rossi, Hooper’s supervisor and Sodexo Operations Manager at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. “She learned every position. Today, she is a lead employee, filling in during the absence of a manager. She knows everything that needs to be done.”

Knowing the job, though, is only a small part of what motivates Hooper. It’s the service to others that is at the heart of all that she does.

“Timika is proactive about helping others, even in her down time. If she sees a need, she tries to fill it,” said Rossi. “We play an important role for our customers, patients and their families, and she often makes suggestions on how to make the patient experience an excellent one.”

Hooper says, “When you visit the floor and find there is a patient who wouldn’t eat all day, you realize it’s because it’s an unfamiliar territory for them – especially for older folks. They’re in an unfamiliar place with people and food they’re not used to … sometimes they become aggressive or shut down. Sometimes they just need that one person to say hi and talk to them as a person.”

“Food service processes can easily become robotic when you’re serving meals,” she continued. “But you have to learn to empathize and see things from the patient’s point of view. Once you connect with them, you can help them. Maybe they just really want a cup of hot tea because that’s what they’re used to at home. If you take the time to talk with patients, you learn how to help them.”

Helping others is something that comes naturally to Hooper. She often volunteers to help with events at the unit – from painting pumpkins with kids to doing cooking demonstrations. In fact, cooking is actually one of Hooper’s secret super powers. Rumor has it that when staff or patients hear that she’s cooking, everyone lines up to make a plate.

“I do love to cook,” admitted Hooper.

Hooper’s ambition and love for all things culinary led her to complete her associate degree in culinary arts, hospitality and tourism. She completed classes while working full-time and maintaining an active volunteer schedule, graduating this past June.

“I know that Tamika will eventually move on to new opportunities, now that she’s done with school,” said Rossi. “I wish that we could keep her here forever – but I’d recommend her to anyone. She’s ready to take on a management role.”

“Sodexo is a place for growth,” said Hooper. “They give you the foundation to grow your knowledge, so you can venture out and grow your career. I’ve enjoyed learning new things and growing my critical thinking skills. My management team has been supportive since the beginning – even after my lupus diagnosis – showing compassion and helping me every step of the way. They saw potential for me and they’ve encouraged me. For me, going to work is like being at home.”

Rossi says Hooper really cares – about her coworkers and the patients she serves each day, aiming to leave a positive mark on the world.

“We do this job for a purpose, all of us, as a team and she is all of it,” said Rossi. “And, any way I can help her move along and advance her career – I want to do that.”

Are you ready to start your Sodexo career? Learn more about our work environments and job opportunities.

Be Bold. Be Free. Be You.

noreply@blogger.com (Sodexo Careers) — Tue, 25 Jun 2019 15:20:00 +0000

Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or you’re an ally, it’s time to embrace your individuality! During Pride Month, Sodexo and its employees celebrate and recognize the positive impact and legacy of the LGBT community at local, national and international levels.

Here are just a few examples of how we’ve celebrated the theme Be Bold. Be Free. Be You. in 2019!

Pride Parade
Employee Business Resource Group PRIDE (People Respecting Individuality, Diversity, and Equality) kicked off Pride Month celebrations by attending the Capital Pride Parade on June 8th. As a sponsor of the parade, Sodexo employees, families and friends all gathered, and we even had a record turnout!

Walk to Benefit the AIDS Foundation of Chicago
The Chicagoland Regional PRIDE Chapter raised over $4,000 at the AIDS walk to benefit the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC). Deb Bentfield, Chicagoland Regional PRIDE Chair, explains why this work is so important to her, saying “I want to do my part by taking an active role to encourage visibility and acceptance for all. Working and living with a diverse group of people is an enriching experience. I’m learning every day. I’m an Ally. “

PRIDE Employee Business Resource GroupAt Sodexo our commitment to equality never stops! PRIDE currently has over 1,000 members around the world and is growing! Their mission is to create an environment of acceptance and workplace equality for all LGBTQ+ and ally employees through employee engagement, community involvement, education and awareness.

Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally - remember to always be bold, be free, and be you. Happy Pride Month!
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Ready to join a company where you will feel empowered to embrace everything that makes you YOU? Explore our job opportunities now!

Too Good to be True? Protect Yourself from Job Scams

noreply@blogger.com (Sodexo Careers) — Tue, 18 Jun 2019 13:09:00 +0000

You think you found the perfect job on online, but how do you know if it’s too good to be true? Our digital world is full of scammers looking to make fast money, and job seekers are common targets. Companies like Sodexo are being misrepresented in job ads on popular job boards or by fake “recruiters” reaching out directly to candidates with phony opportunities.

It can sometimes be hard to tell if a job is real or a scam, but there are several ways that you can avoid wasting your time (and money) on a false lead. Here are a few quick tips to help you guard your personal information:

Trust Your Instincts: If your gut is telling you something isn’t right, move on.

Know Who You’re Talking To: If contacted by a recruiter, double check their credentials before providing any personal information. Be suspicious of any emails not coming from official company domains like @sodexo.com and watch out for fake versions that resemble the real deal like @sodexo-jobs.com. Most recruiters also have well-established LinkedIn networks. Be wary of a recruiter without a photo, with too few connections (especially other people from the company they’re representing) or a vague background.

Protect Your Assets: Legitimate employers won’t ask you to pay money or offer to send you a cashier’s check for any reason. (Seriously, if you hear the word cashier’s check, RUN.) They shouldn’t ask you for confidential information, including Social Security number, birth date, a credit report, or your bank account number to set up direct deposit prior to officially onboarding. Avoid being targeted by only posting your resume on websites with a privacy policy, and ensure they allow only verified employers to review candidate data.

Do Your Research: As with most companies, all of Sodexo’s open positions can be found on our website. If you don’t find a job on the company site that matches the one you found online, it might be a scam. A quick Google search should help you test the truth. If still in doubt, try typing the company name and the word “scam” to see if you can find information on reported scams.

Dear Sir or Madam: Watch out for non-personalized messages and vague details on the company or position. Scammers often try to set up interviews over instant messaging services or email and their messages are frequently full of grammatical or spelling errors. Most also don’t include an official company signature in their messages. These red flags should have you on high alert.

Be Realistic: If you’re being offered high pay with not much work or if you received a job offer without applying or interviewing, you’re most likely looking at a scam. Don’t be fooled by something you know seems too good to be true.

Report it: If you have encountered a job posting or have been approached with a job offer that you suspect may be fraudulent, we strongly recommend you do not respond, send money or personal information. The best thing you can do is report it if it’s posted on a site like LinkedIn, file acomplaint with the FTC or report the job to us with as much information as possible so we can be aware and work to get these fake jobs removed.

Stay safe out there!

Cafeteria Manager Serves as Positive Role Model for Elementary Children

noreply@blogger.com (Trish Freshwater) — Thu, 06 Jun 2019 15:02:00 +0000

As a young child, Kevin Dyer watched his aunts and cousins cooking on Saturdays while they prepared for card parties and other gatherings. And, while these young memories influenced him as he grew up, it was when he attended culinary arts school when “the fire got started” and launched a career that not only brings great satisfaction to him, but also to all of the children he serves.

“I like to be the first one here in the morning,” says Dyer. “We provide breakfast, lunch and suppers. To be a cafeteria manager and watch kids come and eat what you present to them is amazing.”

Dyer, Cafeteria Manager at Payne Elementary School in Washington DC, is likely the most popular employee at the school. Children see him as a mentor, a friend and a trusted guide in a world that isn’t always easy for them. Adults praise his commitment and dedication to the children, for his efforts to go the extra mile and for the impact he has on the lives of the children. (Watch the video here!)

“A lot of these students are homeless, and the shelter is about five blocks away,” explained Dyer. “You never know what that child is going through. We have children that are mentally challenged, deaf or have sugar diabetes. Healthy and nutritional meals are very important for these children, so they can be able to go and learn, so they can be productive in this world, so they can be somebody. I try to build a relationship so that they will remember someone in their life who was positive.”

Kevin’s student-centered approach was integral when the school realized there was low enrollment in the number of children eating at the school. So, he went the extra mile to engage with the students. He learned their names, he offered birthday wishes, he learned about their families. He became real with the kids and fostered positive moments to encourage them to eat in the cafeteria.

“Kevin is very student centered, that’s what I like the most about him. He cares about kids,” said Jason Ward, Assistant Principal at Payne Elementary.

“Kevin is committed to ensuring that the 500+ kids at Payne Elementary have everything that they need in the area of nutrition and diet,” said Cedric Hodo, Resident District Manager, Washington DC Public Schools, SodexoMAGIC. “He is the hallmark of the SodexoMAGIC mission – which is to empower the communities where we serve.”

Serving the community seems to come natural to Dyer, who believes in giving back and being present for outside events, baseball and soccer games, to name a few. He is always there, a consistent presence in the lives of the children at Payne Elementary.

“I want them to know that someone cared about them as they cross over to another journey in middle school,” said Dyer. “I want them to remember that. And that’s one thing I want before I leave here, that I made a mark here, a good impact, nothing bad.”

Do you want to make a positive impact on your community? Find a rewarding role within Sodexo!

"I Work at the Hospital that Saved My Life"

noreply@blogger.com (Sodexo Careers) — Wed, 05 Jun 2019 13:00:00 +0000

Meet Tiffany - a Sodexo Operations Support Specialist for Environmental Services at the Indiana University Health Methodist Hospital. She’s been with Sodexo for 1.5 years but has experienced unbelievable hardships in her personal life. Fortunately, her work family was there for her all along the way.

Only 27 days after starting her career with Sodexo, Tiffany found herself taking an ambulance ride to the very hospital she worked at each day. When I first met her, she warned me that her story was not for the “faint of heart,” and as I share it with you now, I can tell you that she is right. Tiffany is a domestic violence survivor and a T-12 paraplegic, who is paralyzed from the waist down.

Tiffany was once an able-bodied woman who loved to walk her dogs and play basketball with her two sons. Each morning she woke up and put on a happy face, but she constantly lived in fear at home. Each day she’d head off to work hiding bruises and scars, knowing that it was the one place she could escape the reality she lived in.

On September 6, 2017, Tiffany decided that she would no longer be a victim, but it was also the day that changed her life forever. Tiffany was shot from behind and hit by eight bullets.

She was rushed to the Indiana University Health Methodist Hospital and spent five days fighting for her life in a medically induced coma. When she woke up, she realized that she couldn’t feel anything from her belly button down. A wheelchair became her new legs.

In just 17 months, Tiffany has regained some feeling and sensation and is able to walk with the use of special braces and a walker. She also attends intense therapy for Spinal Cord and Traumatic Brain injuries.

Despite this life-changing event, Tiffany is thankful to have an amazing manager at Sodexo! During Tiffany’s recovery, her job was held for four months until she was ready to come back to work.

“There is so much that comes with a spinal cord injury. My boss made it possible for my building to be handicap-accessible and has been very understanding about the effects and medical problems that come with my injury. I was barely an employee for a month at the time, but my manager and Sodexo had faith in my abilities to perform my job and saved my position when they could have easily replaced me.”

Tiffany discovered Sodexo during her job search for an HR Manager / Operations Specialist position. When she read the job description and learned more about the company she knew it was the right fit.

“That’s where I wanted to be. It is hard to find a job you enjoy waking up to go to every morning, let alone a company who is focused on their employees, cares about their work-life balance, and also advocates for people like me who have disabilities and are not sure if anyone will hire them.”

Tiffany enjoys that her job with Sodexo aligns with her career goals too! “It keeps me busy and allows me to utilize my time management and organizational skills. My knowledge of HR along with leadership skills allow me to help my peers.”

Even though Tiffany has been through immense hardships, she still looks forward to a bright future, especially in her career.

“Everyone is family, near and far. In fact, Sodexo is the only company I have worked for that truly cares about their employees. Plus, Diversity and Inclusion are a huge focus here. Most importantly, my manager and my team truly care about me as an employee but also as a person. If you are lucky enough to have a work family like I do, you will never want to let them go. I am glad every day that I chose Sodexo and found a company I will grow old with.”

If you want to join a team that is committed to the advancement of women, creating an inclusive culture, and improving the quality of life for all, then check out our current opportunities now!

Finding Your Place in Healthcare Technology Management

noreply@blogger.com (Sodexo Careers) — Mon, 03 Jun 2019 14:01:00 +0000

If you have ever visited a hospital or maybe just enjoy watching medical TV shows, then you know there’s a whole lot of “cool looking tech” that aids medical staff in healing people each day.

The equipment found in hospitals not only needs regular maintenance and sterilization, but sometimes it requires repairs too! That’s where our Sodexo Clinical Technology Management (CTM) team members come into the picture. Healthcare Technology Management is not only necessary to keep a hospital’s equipment up and running but offers a meaningful career.

As we approach the AAMI Exchange (formerly known as the AAMI Conference & Expo) on June 7th, I spoke with Robert Milward, director for Clinical Technology Management at Sodexo, about his experience in the field.

How did you learn about Healthcare Technology Management?

I didn’t find HTM - it found me. I got out of the Navy in 2008, right at the beginning of the financial crisis. For anyone that remembers, work was hard to come by, but my experience with naval ships and electronics lead me to an offer for an entry-level opportunity repairing ‘pumps’ with a hospital system in Central Florida.

It turns out the ‘pumps’ I would be repairing were not of the naval warship variety but were instead infusion pumps used for medication delivery. From the first day, I knew this was the career for me. Prior to starting in the HTM field, I never thought about the those in the background that maintain hospital medical equipment. HTM employees truly are the behind the scenes super heroes who keep hospitals up and running from an equipment standpoint.

What do your day-to-day typically look like?

What I love about the HTM field is its versatility. Equipment is used in every department in the hospital, which means you may see CTM technicians throughout the facility. Whether a critical issue is happening in the Cath Lab, a capital equipment conversation in the board room, or trauma in the Emergency Room, a member of the HTM community may be there, at any time, helping get equipment for a clinical department operating at optimal efficiency.

How did you start your career at Sodexo?

I have been with Sodexo for two and half years and prior to starting, I had a decision to make between Sodexo or a newer CTM competitor. I remember looking at Sodexo’s footprint and being in awe of its scale and reputation. Everywhere I looked, I read about the great things Sodexo was achieving and knew this was a company with a recipe for success. I also knew I wanted to learn, grow, and work for a company that valued initiative and had the same passion I have for creating a positive effect on others. Even from the outside, I could see Sodexo really took pride in the importance of quality of life for their employees as much as their clients.

Why do you like working for Sodexo?

It’s the culture. Sodexo provides Quality of Life Services but not just for their clients. Employees are an such integral part of the formula for success and there are so many improvement opportunities available. Everything from personal financial planning to certification training and mentoring programs, the value Sodexo places on the quality of life of its employees is not replicated often by other companies.

What advice do you have for someone considering a Healthcare Technology Management career?

The amazing part about an HTM career with Sodexo is improving the quality of life and playing a role in saving lives as well! If you’re considering an HTM career, enjoy helping others, and have a problem-solving mindset, go for it! The HTM field is growing, and Sodexo has the infrastructure and support to help you succeed and the support the team, while continually challenging you to be your best.

(And as an added tip from Robert - the HTM community is full of those who would be happy to share their knowledge and experience. Reach out with your questions, whether in an email or a quick conversation on LinkedIn, to those who are already in the field!).

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If you’re attending AAMI Exchange on June 7-10 in Cleveland, Ohio, we’d like to invite you to stop by and meet the Sodexo CTM team! We can be found at Expo Booth #1031 or at the Career Center in Convention Room 5.

Learn more about Sodexo at AAMI now! If you’re unable to join us, you can still connect with our team or get the latest industry news and job opportunities by joining our Talent Community today.

Gen Z: Making its Mark on Sodexo

noreply@blogger.com (Trish Freshwater) — Fri, 24 May 2019 14:45:00 +0000

Whenever a new generation enters the workforce, its members often come with new ideas they’re eager to share. Gen Z is no exception, with its desires to be noticed and make a positive difference in how businesses operate. And, we’re paying attention. These future movers and shakers born between 1996 and 2010 will represent 1 in 3 workers by 2025!

As a generation that values communication and rapid dialogue, and who has been surrounded by technology their whole lives, it’s no surprise that they’re more likely to use mobile technologies to conduct much of their personal business online. At Sodexo, we’re seeing comparable trends from our new hires that set Gen Z apart when it comes to job seeking. Overall, they’re using mobile apps in ways that previous generations have not, especially when searching for jobs:

Snapchat is used more by Gen Z than Twitter overall, but the app is primarily only used by Gen Z and Millennials (born 1979-1995).
More than half of Millennials and Gen Z respondents use Instagram on a regular basis compared to previous generations.

As a result, we continue to expand our reach through these social networks to reach this generation using the online networks they use most often – including Snapchat filters and Instagram posts. Have you seen us there yet?

Some of the youngest of this generation have already moved into their first jobs and are making their mark on Sodexo while building a strong foundation for their careers. Introducing John and Julianna:

John Vanderlinde
Chef Manager, Harley Davidson

Meet 23-year old John Vanderlinde, who is the Chef Manager at Harley Davidson headquarters in Milwaukee, WI. He is a pastry chef by trade, and shortly after joining Sodexo three years ago he traveled to San Sebastian, Spain, and Paris, France where he learned from Sodexo Executive Chefs in each market. He said this trip, “opened my eyes to a world of opportunities within Sodexo.” In his role as Chef Manager, John leads menu development and execution for the motorcycle manufacturer’s three dining locations, catering for all corporate events, and oversees a staff of 13.

Julianna Baum
Lab Technician, GlaxoSmithKline

Meet Julianna Baum, also 23, who is a Lab Technician at GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) in Collegeville, PA. She joined Sodexo in 2017 after graduating from Delaware Valley University where she received a BS in chemistry. In her role as a chem store chemist, she helps to oversee incoming orders for two 13,000-sq.-ft. smart labs and uses the pharmaceutical giant’s chemical database to ensure that requested chemicals from the store and chemical packages from outside vendors are delivered in a timely fashion.

At Sodexo, we know that each generation has unique career goals and aspirations. Yet, the supporting foundation for these goals seems universal: to make a positive difference. Whether it’s a smile from a patient or a thank you from a student grabbing a quick meal in between exams, our impact is felt daily by our 160,000 employees at more than 13,000 sites across the US. Are you ready to make a difference?

Making a Difference on the Job and Around the World!

noreply@blogger.com (Sodexo Careers) — Tue, 21 May 2019 11:00:00 +0000

Sodexo’s Clinical Technology Management (CTM) team is vital to the health and well-being of patients across the country. This week, we’re celebrating Healthcare Technology Week to promote awareness of – and appreciation for – the critical work of these professionals who manage and maintain the equipment found in healthcare organizations.

In the spirit of the celebration, I spoke with Juan Ramirez, a Sodexo BMET, who has been working at the company for 11 years. Outside of Sodexo, he has put his skills to use on medical missions across the world to help hospitals in need. Here’s his story:

How did you find Sodexo CTM?

When I graduated from DeVry University 11 years ago, I worked with a recruiter who helped recent graduates find jobs in the field. Sodexo had a position open at Phoenix Children's Hospital, and the Director at Sodexo wanted to hire students who had just graduated. It was a perfect fit.

What does your day-to-day look like?

Typically, my days are never the same. I might start with scheduled maintenance in the morning, followed by some documentation, and end the day with a few repairs. I get called for various things that may take priority and handle a lot of projects that usually take a few days to complete. However, I’d rather do something different each day than come to work and do the same repetitive thing all the time.

Why do you like working for Sodexo?

I like working for the team at Phoenix Children's Hospital because I get a sense of accomplishment. The atmosphere is happy and friendly, despite why the patients are here. Everyone here has the same pride and attitude to help patients - directly or indirectly. Our job focuses on the medical equipment that the patients use, so anything we do to that equipment affects them.

Tell me about your medical missions.

Working at Sodexo has opened a lot of doors for me. The training I’ve received on the job and directly from the manufacturers has given me the ability to maintain the medical equipment here at the hospital but also the opportunity to go on medical missions with different organizations.

I have gone to developing countries for the past five years to help the hospitals that are in need. So far, I have gone on eight missions and am planning on two more this year. If it wasn’t for the training that I received, I would not have been able to help, so I am very thankful Sodexo has allowed me to do that.

During these missions, I obtain supplies needed for surgeries, along with the medical equipment that is needed for that specific trip. We then donate the equipment and supplies to the hospitals to continue use after we are done. After the missions, I still help by supporting the equipment, troubleshooting problems and obtaining more supplies for them. All of this is done on my own spare time, and sponsorships support most of the expenses associated with the trips.

All the hospitals that I have visited do not have their own Biomedical Technician, so once their equipment doesn’t work, they set it to the side. I am usually fixing equipment or calibrating them during our week-long missions. I also help translate since most of the locations only speak Spanish.

We typically start on Monday morning doing surgeries at 7 a.m. and finish at 5 p.m. or later. We do this all week to complete as many surgeries as we can. I believe the most we’ve done in a week was 40, and these are at no cost to the hospital or patients.

I am fortunate to be able to take time off for these trips because I coordinate with another Sodexo Tech, Jessica. She is my back up and helps me by making sure she is here at the hospital when I am away. We plan for these trips up to a year in advance, so I make sure I’m able to go before I commit to them. I used to only do one mission a year, but when I reached my 10-year anniversary with Sodexo, I began using my additional vacation time to take an extra trip.
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As you can see, Juan’s story is incredibly inspiring, and we’re proud of his accomplishments within and outside of Sodexo! If you want to join a company where you can make a difference on the job and in your community, then search our current openings now or learn more about Sodexo CTM!

An Award-Winning Month for Diversity at Sodexo

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen Jacobs) — Mon, 20 May 2019 14:33:00 +0000

Sodexo’s commitment to diversity and inclusion received a round of applause this month after being recognized with top honors by four different organizations. Diversity is truly integrated into everything we do at Sodexo, from hiring talent to supplier diversity, which makes these honors really special to all of us across the organization.

DiversityInc Names Sodexo Among Top Companies for LGBT Employees and #1 for Recruiting Women of Color

It is such an honor to be recognized by DiversityInc for the 11th consecutive year. We were named among the Top Companies for LGBT Employees and ranked #1 and #2, respectively, on its Top 9 Companies for Talent Acquisition for Women of Color and Top 15 Companies for Executive Women lists.

As a member of DiversityInc’s Hall of Fame, Sodexo was also named to four additional specialty lists:

#6 on the Top 13 Companies for Talent Acquisition
#9 on the Top 12 Companies for Sponsorship
#9 on the Top 14 Companies for Mentoring
#8 on the Top 14 Companies for Employee Resource Groups

Sodexo Recognized by Working Mother as One of the Best Companies for Multicultural Women for 11 Consecutive Years

For this honor, Working Mother recognizes U.S. companies that create and use best practices in hiring, retaining and promoting women of color. Currently, 36.5 percent of Sodexo executives are female with 9.6 percent of them being women of color. Thanks to our global Women of Color Initiative, with the purpose of promoting the development, engagement and visibility of high-potential women of color, the percentage in executive positions at Sodexo is expected to grow even more!

Sodexo Recognized by the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce and the National Business Inclusion Consortium on 2019 Best-of-the-Best List

“The Best-of-the-Best designation honors corporations for their commitment to America’s diverse employees and business owners,” said NGLCC Co-Founder and President Justin Nelson. “This designation is highly competitive and is bestowed only to corporations that we see constantly striving to strengthen and celebrate diversity. These corporations being honored are true leaders in ongoing global commitments to create a better future for all diverse communities in business.”

Sodexo proudly offers a comprehensive suite of LGBT-focused initiatives including our global employee business resource group--People Respecting Individuality, Diversity and Equality (PRIDE)-- whose mission is to advance LGBT awareness and inclusion across Sodexo’s global footprint. Led by PRIDE, Sodexo developed “Connecting Through Stories,” a 90-minute session for LGBT employees and their allies to learn how to tell their stories in ways that foster understanding, acceptance and action.

Sodexo Recognized by Black EOE Journal as a 2019 Best-of-the-Best Company

Finally, we were recognized in the spring issue of Black EOE Journal as a Top Employer, Top Supplier Diversity Program and Top LGBT-Friendly Company. As a company, we’re committed to partnering with vendors led by minorities, women, service-disabled veterans, LGBTQ and people with disabilities across the U.S. On top of that, we’ve made a global commitment to invest 25 percent of our global spend with small and local businesses, with a focus on women and other underrepresented groups by 2025.

These awards and the efforts they represent are deeply valued by all of us across Sodexo. If you’re interested in joining a company that has diversity and inclusion at the core of its culture, we encourage you to explore our current job opportunities now!

Military Appreciation Month: Supporting Spouses

noreply@blogger.com (Trish Freshwater) — Fri, 17 May 2019 10:05:00 +0000

From Red Shirt Fridays to sending care packages overseas, Americans honor the commitment, dedication and perseverance of our military and their families throughout the year. Still, we take time to focus those efforts In April, when we celebrate the Month of the Military Child. And in May, these recognitions come together for National Military Appreciation Month where we celebrate Military Spouse Appreciation Day and Armed Forces Day, and remember our fallen on Memorial Day.

There is no doubt that America is deeply indebted to our military.

At Sodexo, we are equally committed to recognizing and supporting our military and their families. Whether we’re serving meals at more than 150 military and U.S. Federal Government locations across 26 states or helping a veteran transition to a civilian job, we understand the unique experiences of our military – especially when it comes to supporting their careers.

While there are many programs in place to support the employment of military members, their spouses often feel the strain of frequent relocations when it comes to their careers. In fact, military spouse employment is a rapidly-growing concern of today’s active-duty military members.

That’s why we are partnering with the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation to conduct nationwide focus group studies with military spouses, representing all branches of the military. Through these focus groups we want to explore the current landscape of employment opportunities for military spouses and the barriers they face when seeking employment. The results of these studies will be analyzed to help determine this partnership’s path forward.

Supporting careers. Considering the human element of military life. Honoring the daily sacrifices. This month, we all can impact the lives of our military families through simple gestures like a hand shake and heartfelt “thank you.” At Sodexo, we hope to do so through career growth and opportunities, not only for our servicemembers but also for their spouses.

Learn more about Sodexo’s commitment to hiring heroes.

Celebrating World FM Day with Insights from Sodexo FM Professionals

noreply@blogger.com (Sodexo Careers) — Wed, 15 May 2019 13:39:00 +0000

A culture of recognition is not created overnight. It requires an ongoing commitment to build momentum and keep it going. At Sodexo, it’s not so difficult to do. We have amazing professionals in all our segments and disciplines who deserve to be praised for the hard work they do each and every day to create positive experiences for our clients, customers, patients, students and more!

One way Sodexo shows appreciation for professionals in facilities management is through a weekly “Meet an FM Hero” profile. However, we also want to share with those of you outside of the organization so you can get a better idea of the high caliber work and colleagues you will enjoy if you choose to join one of our teams.

In honor of World FM Day, we’re highlighting just a few of the FM Heroes nominated in 2019 with their personal tips and insights on what it is like to work in the FM profession today and why it might be time for YOU to become a part of Sodexo!

On the rewarding aspects of the FM profession…

Kevin Benda
GM, Custodial and Landscaping Services
Norman Public Schools – Facilities

“I enjoy the challenge of something unexpected happening daily, the problem solving and the self-satisfaction of completing projects that initially felt unfixable. It is challenging because you always have multiple projects to attend to at one time and prioritizing becomes a must. You cannot predict what may happen, which makes the job and the profession exciting.”

Advice to future Facilities Management professionals…

Jeannea Jones
Energy Intelligence Analyst
Facilities Management Platform North America – Service Operations

“Different perspectives are required to have a complete picture. As with most industries, there are both technical and relational aspects in FM. Neither are restricted by race or gender. If FM is your passion, don’t let anything stand in your way. Go for it! There is never a dull moment. The workload is diverse and meets a growing need (and it’s fun!).”

On job satisfaction…

James Dunn
Director Facilities Plant Ops III
HCA Corpus Christi Medical Center

“In healthcare, the physicians performing surgery are important, the nurses at the bedside are important, food service, housekeeping, and patient registration are all important. But when the power goes out or the air conditioning shuts down, the engineering staff are the most important department in the facility. Owning that responsibility, performing at the highest level to prevent these types of failures, and responding quickly and effectively is occupationally satisfying to me."

On creating a culture of safety…

Angelica Hernandez

Environmental Services Manager II

EF Int’l Language Schools

“Our weekly huddles focus on our positive work with an emphasis on safety. One of the things I always tell the staff is that we have these meetings because I want them to go home as they arrived - with all of their fingers and toes!”

On diversity in the FM field…

Walter Boysen
Operations Manager
Campbell’s

“Today, if you want to be successful providing services, you better be a strong advocate for a diverse work place. It’s the right thing to do, and businesses won’t survive without providing opportunities for everyone. I’m glad to be a part of this way of life. Thank you, Sodexo!”

Feeling inspired after hearing from Sodexo facilities management professionals? Search our open FM jobs. You never know – you could be featured on this blog in the future!

Job Seeker Tip! Don't Forget These Important Skills...

noreply@blogger.com (Sodexo Careers) — Tue, 14 May 2019 15:07:00 +0000

Your job application could be one out of 100 (or more), so when your resume captures a recruiter's attention and lands you an interview, it must be a top priority to focus on your communication throughout the process.

It may start with an initial phone call or an email exchange, but if you're one of the best candidates for the position, it's likely that you will have several opportunities to practice these skills.

From scheduling that initial phone screen to interviewing in person, here are a few ways you can show you're truly interested in the job and make the best impression possible!

1. Address the person by name.

Address the recruiter and hiring manager(s) by their name after the initial introduction. This is one of the first ways you can start to make a personal connection with the person who may be hiring you, and it shows you've been paying attention along the way. Depending on the role and process, you may meet several people from the company or department, so take notes if you think you might forget who each of them are!

2. Introduce yourself with a story.

Employers already know that you’re interested in the job, so you don’t have to tell them again that you want to be considered. Instead of restating your resume or telling them you’re a “hard worker,” share an engaging story that displays one or more of the skills from the job description or paints a picture of your leadership skills. You’ll stand out from the crowd of candidates stating, “I am right for this job because I am motivated and would love to work for your company.”

3. Give specific details about WHY you want to work at this company.

You wouldn’t want to work for a company that doesn’t share the same values as you, so why would a company want to hire an employee that doesn’t believe in their mission? Take the time to understand the business and what they’ve been doing. Give specific examples as to WHY you think this would be a good fit. Maybe it’s the company’s commitment to stop childhood hunger or their focus on diversity & inclusion - either way be specific!

4. FOLLOW UP!

This one should be a no-brainer. The squeaky wheel gets the oil, after all. After you've gone through the interview process, don't just sit around and wait. Make sure you've asked for the email addresses of those you interviewed with and show your gratitude. Even if you don't land this job, this is a great way to show respect, and it will allow the team to see you in the best light for future opportunities.

Looking for more tips or want to learn why Sodexo is the right fit for you? Check out these job seeker tips on our blog or read some of our employees amazing career growth stories now!

Saying "Yes" Can Open New Doors in Your Career

noreply@blogger.com (Sodexo Careers) — Mon, 06 May 2019 17:41:00 +0000

Hi everyone! My name is Mike Dorben. I’m from Pittsburgh, PA, and I am a member of Sodexo’s dietetic internship program. I have been blessed with some great experiences, and I am proud to say that I am getting closer and closer to finishing.

Right now, I am in my diabetes education rotation at Ohio Valley Hospital, just outside of Pittsburgh. I have learned so much working side-by-side with a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE). While diabetes education is clearly the focus of this rotation, I have been able to participate in some other great opportunities that I didn’t expect. One awesome feature of the distance option is the flexibility that it gives interns to complete assignments for multiple rotations at a time, and I took full advantage of this.

As a part of the internship, distance interns are required to give three presentation to three different age groups. Opportunity struck as a physician that was scheduled to give a lecture at Ohio Valley’s annual Diabetes Day was forced to cancel. My preceptor offered to give me the timeslot 10 days before the event. I was admittedly nervous about piecing together a lecture in less than two weeks, but I said “yes.” I chose heart health and diabetes as my topic and diligently went to work. The deadline was tight, but it all worked out. I presented to a packed room of over 50 Diabetes Day attendees who were grateful for my information.

Saying “yes” also gave me the chance to successfully collaborate with Ohio Valley’s marketing and dietary departments on a National Nutrition Month event. I attended a dietary department meeting the first week of the rotation, and the topic of National Nutrition Month came up. The director had a culinary background and wanted to feature a dish in the retail cafeteria. I pitched the idea of a Mediterranean diet-approved dish. We used the recipe database that the hospital has access to and agreed upon a “Roasted Sumac Salmon and Farro Bowl.”

We worked together with the hospital’s marketing department to develop promotional materials. I created an informational handout about farro and handed out free samples of our featured dish at the entrance to the cafeteria. It ended up being a great event that was made possible by saying “yes.”

After seven months of hands-on training to become a dietitian, I can certainly say that I am looking forward to graduation. However, I will cherish the experiences I have had thus far. Besides learning about tube feeding, micronutrients, and food science, there are many more lessons to learn.

By being open to experiences, I have been able to step out of my comfort zone and sharpen my skills. These are the types of experiences that will let me take my career as far as I want to.

Mike Dorben – Distance Option

Want to read more about the impact dietitians are making each and every day at Sodexo? Head on over to the Sodexo Dietetic Internship Blog.

As North America's largest employer of Registered Dietitians, we offer future dietetic professionals the opportunity to complete their education in a variety of challenging and rewarding ways to accommodate part-time and full-time learners. Learn more here!

If you're already a Registered Dietitian, find a world of job opportunities on our dietetic career site at www.SodexoDietitianJobs.com.

Recognizing a Rising Star in Facilities Management

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen Jacobs) — Thu, 25 Apr 2019 10:30:00 +0000

We love to celebrate success at Sodexo, so I’d first like to congratulate Tchuissi Mbu Nyamsi, a Sodexo FM Project Manager Trainee, on being awarded the Scott Hulick Professional Development Grant from the Capital Chapter of International Facility Management Association (IFMA) at the Credentials Breakfast on March 19.

Tchuissi Mbu Nyamsi (left) with Mayra Portalatin

Tschuissi joined Sodexo’s FM Platform through the French International Postgraduate Internship Program and is proving to be a rising star in the industry. This grant not only recognizes her positive contributions but also supports her work to gain her Facility Management Professional (FMP) Credential.

As a part of the grant process, Tchuissi’s dedication to her career growth has been recognized by leaders in the industry. Mayra Portalatin, President of the Capital Chapter of IFMA, presented the grant to Tchuissi, praising her commitment to professional development and calling her “an inspiration for our FM profession.”

Angela Johnson, Vice President of FM Service Development at Sodexo stated, “Tchuissi demonstrates a high enthusiasm to learn more about Facility Management and maintains a thirst to learn and apply that knowledge in her work. She is dedicated to learning FM and seeks out how each encounter and opportunity can be used to help herself improve.”

Investing in future Facilities Management talent is a big priority for Sodexo, as a leader in the industry. According to Global Workforce Initiative (GWI), there will be over 500,000 FM job openings globally over the next five years, yet more than 50 percent of seasoned FMs are retiring within the next 5-15 years. We’ve partnered with the IFMA Foundation and GWI to help close the growing talent gap in the FM industry by reaching students earlier in their career decision process. We’re thankful for the IFMA Foundation’s support of young professionals, shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

Congratulations to Tchuissi Mbu Nyamsi on your well-deserved recognition! We look forward to watching you grow your career at Sodexo.

Applying for Jobs Offline is SO 1999...

noreply@blogger.com (Sodexo Careers) — Wed, 24 Apr 2019 14:37:00 +0000

The first online job boards were created in 1999, and by 2010 over 80% of people were using the internet. It was only a matter of time before paper applications became obsolete.

Can you believe there’s probably an entire generation out there that has never submitted a single paper application or resume? Despite the changes we’ve seen over the last 20 years, they’ve been for the better when it comes to finding a job. Online applications are streamlining the hiring process for everyone involved.

Not only are electronic applications are making it easier than ever to apply to a job, often, you can even search jobs right from your phone! To maximize your time and minimize your efforts, here are a few tips to optimize your job search:

1. Start your search. Most companies now have mobile-friendly career websites and job postings, so you can browse wherever you are. Additionally, companies like Sodexo are making it easier than ever! You can text the word SODEXO to 972-11 to get openings in your area, while getting your questions answered, all through the messaging app on your phone!

2. Set up notifications. Once you have your criteria in place (location, job category, and more), you can often subscribe to job alerts. This allows you to spend less time searching, and you’ll be less likely to miss a job opportunity if you do get busy.

3. Keep a resume handy. You never know when the perfect opportunity will show up, so it’s best to be prepared. By keeping a copy of your updated resume and other documents on saved apps, like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive, you’ll be able to apply to any job that you find in minutes!

4. Follow employers on social media. Social media can be used for more than just liking your friend’s great selfie. Organizations use social media to notify job seekers of exciting opportunities, while also providing a behind-the-scenes look at how your life might look as an employee. Throughout the job search process, you can find great information on your favorite social channels, which can help guide you to the right company and the right position.

Are you thinking about working for Sodexo? Check out our current opportunities now - and don’t forget to set up those job alerts! You can also follow our social pages where we’re always sharing the latest and greatest job seeker content (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn). Finally, you can also find more Job Seeker Tips right on our blog!

Happy hunting!

Working Together to Create a Sustainable Future

noreply@blogger.com (Trish Freshwater) — Mon, 15 Apr 2019 14:38:00 +0000

Growing up, Earth Day was a day when our schools would host tree-planting events and we’d learn about why it was important to care for Mother Earth. It was usually a one-day event that taught us to be mindful. Today, Earth Day is still a single day to remind us of the impact humans have on our planet, but as adults, we know that we must be environmentally aware all year long.

At Sodexo, we realize that many everyday moments – from breaking bread, to sharing work spaces, to interacting with our community – impact our health, our neighborhoods and our planet. So, we conduct our business through the lens of responsibility and sustainability.

For example, our chefs and supply experts favor ingredients that are unprocessed, fresh and local, and responsibly sourced. We’ve purchased more than 3,000 tons of fairly traded coffee and 68 million cage free eggs.

We’re also tackling the problem of food waste by engaging with clients and supply partners to provide innovative solutions on food waste through the WasteWatch program powered by the LeanPath. This program has been proven, on average, to reduce food waste by up to 50%. Sodexo's objective is to scale the program to 70% of our food sites by 2020, targeting 100% by 2025.

We’ve also been working hard since 2011 to reduce our carbon emissions by 34% by 2025 and have been recognized as an industry leader by the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for 14 years.

The month of April is a natural time to consider Mother Earth as spring begins to bloom and Earth Day celebrations spur us to make a difference in our communities. But, at Sodexo, we see every day as Earth Day through our efforts to collaborate with clients and design sustainable solutions for the next generation of their business. After all …

“When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world,” John Muir, an early advocate for the preservation of wilderness in the United States, also known as the Father of the National Parks.

Are you ready to work together to create a sustainable future? Find your next career move with Sodexo!

3 Tips to Use in Your Internship and Career!

noreply@blogger.com (Sodexo Careers) — Tue, 09 Apr 2019 16:15:00 +0000

Hey, everyone! My name is Katie Wolf, and I am currently a dietetic intern for Sodexo’s distance program in my clinical rotation at Orange Park Medical Center in Florida.

Over the past couple of months, with a lot of practice and guidance from my preceptors, I have slowly gained more confidence in my ability to provide and use the nutrition care process for each patient I assess. I remember sitting in my Medical Nutrition Therapy class at the University of North Florida learning how to calculate enteral feedings for the first time. I was scared that I would never learn. Now, with every calculation, I become more confident and efficient.

Initially, when I envisioned my clinical rotation, I imagined patients that would fit the exact description from what you read in a textbook or saw on a PowerPoint. I was captivated from the first day.

I find myself researching and discussing different disease states I never knew existed with the registered dietitians. I have been highly involved with the trauma and intensive care unit (ICU). I never thought I would be so involved in the interdisciplinary team. The ICU and trauma floor is fast paced, yet calm and organized with many skilled people working together to help form a plan of care for each patient to figure out the best possible outcome. Below are some tips that I wish I knew prior to starting my clinical rotation:

Be prepared.

For each rotation within the clinical rotation (Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced), go over basic nutrition therapy for the population of your community and patients you think you will encounter during that specific rotation. This way, you are well-prepared with your interventions and recommendations.

Ask questions.

Ask every question you can think of. Try to network and get know the interdisciplinary team during rounds on the different floors with nursing staff, doctors, and pharmacists. Once you can approach the care team, they will most likely answer your questions and they will appreciate your interest in the topic and how it relates to nutrition. Go over the assignments that are due prior to starting the rotation to help stimulate questions.

Don’t be so hard on yourself.

When I first started, I needed a lot of help writing my notes for each patient. It takes time to learn the electronic medical record, to learn what exactly to write on your note, and what the registered dietitians expect to see. It gets easier and you become more efficient without doubting yourself.
Over the next couple of months, I will be living in Bradenton, Florida, where I will do the Critical Care MNT concentration at Manatee Memorial Hospital. I am excited for a new opportunity that will challenge my critical thinking skills, and I look forward to learning more skills from other registered dietitians. I encourage you to always put on a smile and keep challenging yourself every day!

Katie Wolf – Distance Option

Want to read more about the impact dietitians are making each and every day at Sodexo? Head on over to the Sodexo Dietetic Internship Blog.

As North America's largest employer of Registered Dietitians, we offer future dietetic professionals the opportunity to complete their education in a variety of challenging and rewarding ways to accommodate part-time and full-time learners. Learn more here!

If you're already a Registered Dietitian, find a world of job opportunities on our dietetic career site at www.SodexoDietitianJobs.com.

Undecided about a Career Path? Facilities Management could be Your Future!

noreply@blogger.com (Trish Freshwater) — Mon, 08 Apr 2019 16:39:00 +0000

500,000 new job openings over the next five to 15 years. Only 800 people graduating from related college degree programs each year globally. If you have an interest in Facilities Management, Sodexo has a career opportunity for you!

So, what’s with the number details? The Facilities Management (FM) industry is at a critical time where more than half of its global workforce will be retiring in the coming years. With those retirements, there will be a large number of job openings in addition to the projected new openings expected from the industry’s growth. To meet this need, the industry must foster a greater interest in FM careers.

Opportunities for You

The FM industry offers exciting opportunities for those who want to build and maintain better workplaces for people. Essentially, FM managers ensure that the systems of the built environment work harmoniously with the people and improve productivity of the core business – often using technology that allows managers to be agile and flexible with business demands.

At Sodexo, you could lead teams for any number of services in hospitals, nursing homes, colleges, schools, corporations, government facilities or leisure services in the following job categories:

• Plant Operations and Maintenance (POM)
• Energy Management, including Heating & Cooling (HVAC), Electrical, etc.
• Construction, Space Planning and Relocation
• Grounds and Landscaping, including Athletic Turf & Sports Field Maintenance
• Custodial / Housekeeping
• Business Services Logistics
• Clinical Technology Management

Women in FM

Once a male-dominated industry, women are now finding rewarding careers in FM. In fact, adding more people from different backgrounds means bringing more ideas to the growing FM field.

“Increasing the representation of women in all aspects of FM brings additional diversity of thought to the field. This helps us deliver best-in-class solutions to our clients.” says Elinor Ochoa, a facilities district manager for five Texas and Oklahoma school districts.

“And, increasing the number of women – and women leaders – in the field could give younger women role models and convince them they can succeed in the field,” added Brooke Spaulding, the facilities operations manager at P&G Gillette, a Sodexo site.

Growing the FM Industry

At Sodexo, we see FM as a critical need for businesses. That’s why we are a charter member of the Advisory Council for the IFMA Foundation’s Global Workplace Initiative (GWI). This is a council of industry, academic and IFMA board leaders focused on building the FM talent pool and making FM a career of choice.

Our work with the GWI and the IFMA Foundation has focused initially in two areas – the advancement of women in FM and the creation and support of more FM degree programs around the world.

To support the careers of women, we produce a series of virtual webinars as well as live events such as the Women in Facilities Management Panel at the IFMA World Workplace Forum and Facility Fusion conferences.

Supporting college students (check out these internships!) and the expansion of FM degree programs is key to bringing new professionals into the career field. At this year’s IFMA World Workplace Forum, Sodexo participated in the first ever IGNITE FM Student Competition where some of our FM professionals served as judges. Participating students worked in teams to solve a real-world FM challenge, with the winning team earning a $2,000 cash prize! We will be judging the second IGNITE FM competition at the 2019 Facility Fusion conference in Atlanta, Ga.

Whether you’re new to FM or have been working in the field for some time, Sodexo wants to talk to you about these career opportunities.

How Joining the Sodexo Women's Network Group Shaped My Career

noreply@blogger.com (Sodexo Careers) — Fri, 29 Mar 2019 12:00:00 +0000

When I reflect on my career growth with Sodexo during Women's History Month, I’m grateful for a single choice I made early on to join one of the Employee Business Resource Groups.

Nearly 13 years ago - on my second day of employment - a General Manager invited me to join what was then called WiNG (the Women’s Network Group) My initial thought was, “Why not?” so I signed up immediately.

I began my tenure with Sodexo as Marketing Specialist at Ithaca College. I was an alumnus, so I loved working with the students and I loved that my job allowed me to leverage my creativity. But my network outside of Sodexo was pretty much non-existent at the time. Although I joined WiNG early on, I lived in an area where there wasn’t an active chapter, so it was challenge for me to get involved.

Eventually my responsibilities grew to include supporting a district. I remember the day my District Manager came to me and asked if I wanted to expand my role. I was excited, anxious and seven months pregnant with my first child.

I took the leap, and although there were days when having a young child and traveling for work was challenging, I welcomed these new responsibilities. During this time, I raised my hand for a few stretch assignments, one of those being The Sodexo Experience - the customer service program for Universities. Getting involved in this and other projects served me well.

I expanded my network again and soon, an opportunity opened for a Communications Manager in Schools. I heard about it through my new Sodexo colleagues when attending the Women’s Foodservice Forum (WFF). This job was a really good fit for me at the time, as I brought my operational experience to the table.

After being in the role for a few years and with the guidance of a great mentor, I grew thicker skin and began to feel more comfortable with leadership and sharing my ideas. Shortly after, the communications team became centralized and I decided to apply for a Senior Manager position - one level above my current role at the time. I wanted to leverage this situation as an opportunity to move up within the company, and I was very fortunate that my strategy worked.

A few months later, I received an email that WiNG was looking for a Communications Chair at the national level. I couldn’t reply to the email fast enough. I served in that role for two years, and we did some truly amazing things during that time. One of the most memorable was kicking off our Mastermind Series – a new talk-style format that explored leaders and their journeys. I absolutely loved working on the series and decided to raise my hand to moderate the conversation - on camera - with Lorna Donatone, CEO Regional Chair of North America, and Deb McLaughlin, VP of Schools, as the panelists.

This was not something I had done before, and while giving presentations was part of my job, it was never in front of an audience or on camera. I was nervous and wanted to be solid on my questions, so I practiced backwards, forwards, and sideways. My preparation paid off, and this was the beginning of many more conversations I would go on to moderate for WiNG and in my day job. I always tell people I think the moderator role is the best because you get to guide the conversation and have some fun along the way.

I began to see a change in my personal life as well. I had always enjoyed exercising, but somehow finding more confidence in my job helped me to find that same confidence in running. In October 2017, Sodexo sponsored me to run in the Marine Corps Marathon 10k. This was a huge goal for me, but I took it very seriously and approached it the same way I did my job – being very well prepared. I achieved a personal record, and while I’ll never be a fast runner, the lessons I have learned about pacing and the mental clarity it brings me are priceless.

The experience that I gained with WiNG was invaluable, grew my confidence and led to the position I have today. About two years ago I was offered a new role as Director of Communications for Service Operations. This was something I was extremely excited about. The first year of any new job is always hard, but I went in determined to create a strategy that showed the value that Service Operations brings to the organization, and I am fortunate that the team has been very inclusive and open to new ideas.

Recently WiNG began to make the change to its new name, SoTogether, to reflect Sodexo’s commitment to a gender-balanced world. I felt compelled to get heavily involved but was concerned about my ability to balance everything. After a conversation with my current supervisor, Jennifer Williamson, she made me realize that I did have the time to influence and lead change with a strong team behind me. I made the commitment to myself to go all-in and decided to run for SoTogether Co-Chair. And I’m honored to have been elected into that role.

Joining this group gave me the opportunity to make new connections beyond my day job, build my personal brand, and gain confidence to continue challenging myself by seeking out new opportunities along the way.

What’s next for me? Well, in some ways I’m still working through that and achieving work / life balance just like all of you. I love my current role, I love my position with SoTogether, and I love the work we are doing that will help both of my daughters – Anna (6) and Hailey (10) - to build brighter futures. In my spare time, I’m training for a half-marathon in June.

Now it’s your turn - what’s next for you?

Post by Julie Whitten, Communications Director and SoTogether USA National Co-Chair

Rewarding Careers in Facilities Management Aren't Always Linear

noreply@blogger.com (Trish Freshwater) — Thu, 21 Mar 2019 20:40:00 +0000

When life comes full circle and brings you back to your passion, it’s hard not to notice the paths that led you there and to take stock in the experiences that were pivotal during your journey.

That’s exactly where Celina Wilder found herself when interviewing for a Due Diligence/Transition Team Member position at Sodexo – returning to her roots, a job opportunity aligned with an industry she had enjoyed from the beginning.

A graduate of Georgia Institute of Technology, Wilder holds a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering. And, while her career began in this field, it took several turns along the way – turns that fostered the development of transferrable skills like leadership, process improvement and business development competencies.

“Over the years, I gained diverse industry and leadership experiences,” said Wilder. “I worked in manufacturing, building and plant settings as a project manager, engineer and consultant. I also provided business analysis, process improvement and training to organizations ranging from food service companies to power companies.”

In her role at Sodexo, she supports Hard FM services (including asset management and engineering services) to drive innovation and future improvements to the company’s Hard FM operations, while increasing profits and operational efficiency.

“I believe in improving business outcomes through operational efficiency, strategic analysis and people development,” said Wilder.

And when it comes to mentoring other women or talking about career opportunities for women, Wilder uses her own experience to encourage others.

“So much of what we learn and are capable of achieving comes from the skills we gain in our everyday work,” said Wilder. “It’s important not to judge a job by its title and think you can’t apply or wouldn’t be considered for the job because your background doesn’t match that specific job title. Often, we overlook our ability to find success because we don’t realize the value of our transferrable skills and the opportunity to learn a new industry.”

Are you ready to learn something new? Meet Wilder and other representatives from Sodexo at the National Facilities Management Technology (NFMT) Conference and Expo Women in Facilities Roundtable discussion and reception in Baltimore, MD, on Wednesday March 27, 2019, from 3:45-6 p.m.

Sodexo’s teams also will be available to talk about careers in Facilities Management at booth #2144 during the NFMT Expo.

Can’t make it to Baltimore? Start your journey by reading some of our employee stories about working for Sodexo in Facilities Management.

International Women's Day: Celebrating #BalanceforBetter

noreply@blogger.com (Trish Freshwater) — Fri, 08 Mar 2019 14:28:00 +0000

"The story of women's struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist
nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights."
– Gloria Steinem, journalist and world-renowned activist for women’s rights.

The history of International Women’s Day is rich with inspiration and stories about overcoming adversity. Today, we live in a world where gender balance is no longer a dream but a reality that so many are striving to achieve.

At Sodexo, more than half of our employee population worldwide and half of our Board of Directors are women. But we’re not stopping there. By 2025, we aim for all employees to work for gender-balanced management teams.

We believe strongly in the value of women and #BalanceforBetter.

From our women’s employee business resource group changing its name to SoTogether to the launch of our new global job shadowing program SheWorks, Sodexo’s commitment to women’s rights and building a gender-balanced world is ongoing.

“Sodexo has made gender balance a global priority because when we empower women, we also empower the individuals and communities around them,” said Rohini Anand, Senior Vice President Corporate Responsibility and Global Chief Diversity Officer.

Building a Gender Balanced World Together with SoTogether

This year, our women’s employee business resource group, WiNG, changed its name to SoTogether to reflect our commitment to building a gender-balanced world. This global organization seeks to foster a culture where enhancing women’s individual and professional growth contributes to the global success of our company and the communities we serve.

SoTogether includes 13 regional chapters across the US that support community organizations such as the Susan G. Komen and Avon Walk fundraising organizations, Dress for Success and Girls Inc., among other initiatives.

SheWorks – An Opportunity to Support Gender Balance

SheWorks is a job shadowing program launching on International Women’s Day during which Sodexo managers across the globe are being asked to invite a woman from their community to learn about Sodexo’s business and our job opportunities. Through this event, we will introduce women to new job opportunities they may not have considered previously and help them see new potential for their own economic independence.

“The importance of inclusion in our communities cannot be underestimated,” said Anand. “This program will help to anchor corporate responsibility within our business and deliver a positive impact in our communities.”

She added, “Reaching out to women, often the most vulnerable, we provide them with career paths and where possible employment in Sodexo. This will ultimately improve quality of life in the community, which is a fundamental part of our mission as a business.”

Achieving gender equality drives our performance and is critical to reaching a Better Tomorrow for our employees, our clients and consumers, and the communities we serve.

Are you ready to be part of this #BalanceforBetter journey? Join an inclusive environment where you can make a difference - in the fight for equality and in the lives of the clients, customers, and communities we serve.