Karen Graham
Senior Recruiter, Talent Acquisition Group
I returned to Sodexo to run a new service called eXPress Service Solutions. Although I had no experience with that product line, the detailed training that I received from our technical support team helped me get up to speed and contribute successfully to the Clients needs. That opened the door later for me to be promoted to my current position as a senior recruiter. While I was away from the company, I realized that the professional manner that is the norm demonstrated by the Sodexo community at large is what sets us apart from other employers. Also, the respect that Sodexo employees have for ourselves and towards the people that we serve.
Robert Chaplin
Plant Operations Manager
Battle Creek Health System. Battle Creek, Mi.
When I left Sodexo for family reasons, I told my District Manager that sometime in the future I would be returning. While I was away, I learned that my position with Sodexo gave me an advantage over being an employee of a hospital. On my own, I lost the ability to network with other accounts and managers. I believe this to be one of the best assets Sodexo has. I never lost touch with people that I worked and networked with at Sodexo; and the Sodexo web site kept me informed of job openings. Eventually, the people that became my friends at Sodexo were the ones that helped me return. To them I say thank you. I very much appreciate Sodexo’s understanding of my needs and welcoming me back.
Beverly C. Thompson, RD, LDN
General Manager, Food & Nutrition Services
Woodlake at Tolland, Tolland CT
Several reasons influenced my decision to return to Sodexo. I missed the resources available for my success and continued learning, like Sodexonet and having guidance from an experienced District Manager. I also missed having a realistic objective-based performance evaluation process that challenged my professional growth as a manager; and the unlimited opportunities available to me within one organization. Being away helped me realize how important it is for me to love my work, and to have an employer places value on my individual success. Accounts have similarities, but the emphasis placed on my development by Sodexo results in my taking ownership of the business I'm managing. That's what I wanted again.
Amy Davin Cho
Senior Recruiter, Remote – Home office
When I left Sodexo, I maintained contact through the company web site, social networking sites, and with the leadership in the department I had served in. I decided to return to because I missed being a part of a company culture that truly embraces the values of service, team and progress, and strives to daily live best practices. I also wanted to return to a better work-life balance. While I was away, I developed a broader realization that career means being able to balance both personal and professional pursuits – and that the impact of the role one serves in at is only limited by one's own dreams, values and commitment.
Anne Harrison
Clinical Nutrition Manager
Manor Care-West, Deptford, NJ
When I decided to leave Sodexo to work in an acute care setting, I found I missed the long-term care aspect of my job and the people that I worked with. I also realized that there was no advancement available in a hospital setting and there were many opportunities within Sodexo. That is one of the reasons I returned. Sodexo offers me many opportunities to meet my career goals. For instance, my recent job has included management responsibilities and developing new dietitians.
Stela Felipe Retail Manager Parrish Medical Center
Ever since I moved to the United States in 2003, I made the decision to return to work Sodexo. Previously, I had worked for Sodexo Brazil for 10 years - experiencing the strong commitment of developing our people. Once in the U.S., I would check the Career Center on a regular basis for job opportunities in my area. My diligence paid off. Now I can apply my talent for retail management in an environment that makes me feel motivated by meeting interesting people and building relationships with customers and my staff. I feel like I make a contribution every day. It is the good feeling of being at home. I feel very fortunate that I have been able to get back on track in my career at Sodexo.
Jim Graham
General Manager
Medical College of Georgia, Augusta
During my first 20 years with Sodexo, I had many opportunities to assist with training programs in addition to my responsibilities as a General Manager. Developing a real interest, I had an opportunity outside of the Sodexo to work as a full-time trainer. But I returned to Sodexo just 2 years later after realizing that the training job did not offer the challenges and rewards that I received as a Sodexo General Manager in operations. I realized that the everyday tasks and challenges of our jobs which we often complain about are really the things that keep us going. Being part of a successful team that works together to get things done is a great feeling.
Joanna Chan
General Manager
St Alexius Medical Center, Hoffman Estates, IL
It was a client who actually talked me into returning to Sodexo. There were many positive reasons to work for this particular client. I was also hoping that we would also have a chance to gain back a sister account. This was achieved in 2007 and I hope I had some contribution in making this happen. In comparing my experiences, I would say that the work is similar but Sodexo's leaders are far more caring. The competitor had me on a fast track, but the “caring” part was lacking. With management support, I have the flexibility and the ability to grow. At the same time, every day I can develop the talents on my management team.
This spot is reserved for you!
You could be the next chapter in our success story.
Brian Bustoz
Patient Services Manager
LBJ Hospital, Houston, TX
I decided to return to work for Sodexo because of the quality and excellence they strive for in patient care. At the competitors, I felt it was all about the dollar even though we were there to serve the patients during their healing process. I also learned about how self-operated facilities are run, and that I would not want to go back to one. From my experience, management had no idea how to run a successful operation. I am glad to be back with a company that knows how to implement systems for successful operations. I like how big Sodexo is, and the ability to move up and move anywhere once you have accomplished success at the current account. I also enjoy the great friends I have made with Sodexo.
Donna Uher
Executive Chef
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
After my husband and I got married, I left my position as an Executive Chef and Operations Manager at Ouachita Baptist University. My husband, who is also a chef, owned two restaurants (Chef Paul's and Pompeii) in Hot Springs, Arkansas. When we made the decision to close one of the restaurants, I began to look at the Sodexo job site. I knew from past experience that the pay was great and the benefits were exceptional. And, I really appreciated the diversity. Coming back to Sodexo was an easy decision. When an Executive Chef position close to my home became available, I decided to return to Sodexo.
Stanislav Khaitin
Inventory Control Manager
Harlem Hospital Center, Manhattan, NY
I had been with Sodexo for just over a year as an Environmental Services Operations Manager when our contract with the client came to an end. I had a great experience with Sodexo, but due to personal considerations, I was unable to relocate. I stayed in touch with Sodexo through the company website and social networking sites. I also kept in touch with my former Sodexo managers. My new position offered limited career advancement opportunities, so when the Inventory Control Manager position with Sodexo became available, I knew it was the right choice for me. Sodexo's training programs and the unlimited opportunities for professional growth made this an easy decision.
Rupa Lakshmikanthan
Clinical Dietitian
St. Lawrenceville, NJ
I was amazed at the growth opportunity Sodexo provided me with during my tenure - 2007-2012. I had a growth plan in mind and Sodexo was there for me as my guiding light. The training centers and the support I received for anything I needed were amazing! When my position as a Lead Dietitian with a New Jersey hospital came to an end, I was unable to relocate to another position. After my separation, I followed the advice HR had given me and stayed in touch through the various Sodexo career sites. I had always thought of my career with Sodexo as "wearing a rainbow around my neck" and, given the immense opportunities with Sodexo, that dream is still possible.
Marla Hawley
Food Service Manager 2
Portland, Oregon
Due to declining student enrollments and consolidations (from 18 schools to 11), there was no longer a requirement for two Food Service Managers. I had worked for Sodexo for 9 years and loved everyone and everything about the company. Sodexo has great values and excellent standards, and I appreciate what Sodexo stands for and has to offer to employees and clients. I missed my career with Sodexo and was very interested in taking my career to the next level. I kept in touch with several recruiters and I created job agents at the career center. For me, Sodexo is like family. Sodexo people genuinely care about one another, and the manager team is always there to help you meet your goals.
This spot is reserved for you!
You could be the next chapter in our success story.
Shaneika Johnson
General Manager
The Pine at Whiting
Early in my career I had exposure to Sodexo through Wood Company. When an incredible offer came along to make a move it was too tempting to resist. Subsequently the facility was sold and went self op. Thankfully I had maintained professional relationships with many individuals at Sodexo. That led me back to a career where I knew that I had lots of room to grow and numerous career opportunities. The support and resources are unmatched. Now, I can enjoy endless domestic and international opportunities while doing something that I love – making meals special for every resident.
Dorothy McFadden
Clinical Dietitian
St Luke's Hospital Allentown PA
After leaving Sodexo I stayed in contact with my co-workers. And I'm glad I did. Those contacts along with maintaining my licensure and registration allowed me to return; taking advantage of the opportunities for career advancement and strong support that Sodexo offers dietitians. I really like the clinical updates, resources for regulatory agencies, networking with the nation's most knowledgeable dietitians and the opportunity to precept interns. Now, I've become part of great team at St. Luke's Hospital. My supervisor is terrific; using her vast experience with Sodexo to get us in touch with all the resources we need to be a leading-edge dietitian.
Bill Prout
General Manager
Gratiot Medical Center, Alma, MI
Leaving Sodexo was a difficult decision. After all, I was proud to be a part of what I considered an industry-leading team. But I made the move to what was supposed to be the opportunity of a lifetime: I became a Sodexo vendor – a relationship that proved quite valuable as I worked with my replacement to ease the transition. Now I’m back, stronger than ever for my experience and proud that I took the chance. What I once might have considered hokey clichés – integrity, accountability, respect and loyalty – turned out to be strong attributes that I learned as part of the Sodexo culture and took with me. I’m proud to be a part of our industry-leading team once again.
Kyle Baker
Senior Accountant
Accounting is a very good field made particularly important with the economic slowdown of the past few years. After five years in Accounting with Sodexo, a friend came to me with a job at his company that offered an opportunity to expand my knowledge. As I broadened my expertise on the new job, I always had the unlimited potential of a Sodexo career in the back of my mind. Through many of my terrific friends at Sodexo, I also kept current on the continuous improvements made in the Sodexo environment. When the ideal opportunity made itself available, I happily returned to the Sodexo team. Now I can enjoy the training and support I need to feed my curiosity for leading-edge accounting.
Marie Michelini Clinical Dietitian
Elk Regional Health Center, St Mary's PA
When I first joined Sodexo I was excited about joining a company that had such superb benefits, support from a great team of RDs, a respect for work/life balance, and a position only 30 minutes from my home. But when the contract was terminated and I found myself with a position nearly 2 hours from home. That proved to be too much of a strain on me and my family. But over time, I found that many companies do not place a high premium on work/life balance and that I truly love the variety and interaction with people offered by a Sodexo dietitian career. And that's what I rediscovered as I rejoined to the Sodexo team.
Sue Sussman
General Manager
New York/Connecticut
After 21 years with Sodexo and companies joining through acquisition, I decided to pull a bit away from operations and take on a corporate strategic planning role for another company. In that position, I was able to take part in some wonderful projects that gave me valuable knowledge that I could take anywhere. However, I discovered that a person can be talented and committed but having a true team approach adds to one's success. I learned that I prefer an organization that allows for growth and opportunity within itself. So I jumped at the chance to rejoin Sodexo where I could count on a strong support system and continually build my career.
Karen Potocki
Manager
Hamot Women's Hospital
After a contract termination, I continued to work with the client through another company. However, I soon found that I did not have the same respect and pride that had been integral to my experience with Sodexo. They were always my second family. So I decided to return to Sodexo where I could, once again, work for a company that made me feel they had my best interests at heart and were willing to give me the tools to succeed. At Sodexo we built friendships that lasted beyond our tenure with the company. So I was able to use my contacts to secure a new position with an old friend...Sodexo.
Mike Jarmer
Operations Manager
Imagine Charter Schools, Arizona
I left Sodexo when our client's contract expired. For two years I worked as a Retail District Manager, but during that time I realized that food service management is my passion. I stayed in contact with several of the managers with whom I worked and I would receive emails about job opportunities from Sodexo. I had always enjoyed the pace, energy and diversity that I experienced in my time with Sodexo. One of the things that distinguishes Sodexo is that they want you to succeed and they provide the training and networking opportunities you need to get there. Sodexo has a great culture and I am thrilled to be back!
Ellis G. Kirby
Education Facilities Solutions - Vice President of Operations
Atlanta, GA
I had been with Sodexo for almost 8 years in a variety of management positions before personal circumstances required me to take a facilities management position with a leading university. This was a valuable learning experience, but I missed the opportunity to support and grow facilities management at a more strategic level. I think that the best part of working for Sodexo is the opportunity to work with people who are passionate about serving their clients. When I left Sodexo, I stayed in contact with many of my peers. The Sodexo Reconnexions e-mails helped keep me up-to-date and made me feel that I was still a part of the Sodexo family.
Tera Fridley, RD, LD
Patient Operations Manager III
University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Cleveland, OH
After over 7 years with Sodexo, I was disappointed to learn that our contract wasn't renewed and there were no local opportunities for me. I've always loved working for Sodexo and have been looking for an opportunity to return. I always felt like an important part of the team and not just "another manager." The support, encouragement and collaboration aren't always there with other companies. I'm so glad I kept in touch with people from Sodexo and was able to re-join the team. Even before I started back, I felt like I was part of the company again.
Karen Hagg
Catering Manager
San Ramon Valley Conference Center, San Ramon, CA
I had worked at Sodexo for 4 years as the Director of Catering at the University of California, Davis before it became necessary for me to leave for personal reasons. I knew when I left Sodexo that I wanted to return. I was (and still am) thrilled that the position with the San Ramon Valley Conference Center presented itself. Sodexo is a very supportive, employee-friendly company. Not all workplaces offer an environment of camaraderie that can be found at Sodexo. The ongoing training and advancement possibilities are fantastic. The benefits are pretty darn good as well. But the very best part of working at Sodexo is the people!
Mark R. Salesses
Director of Business Development, Corporate Services
When a very good friend offered me an opportunity to work in San Diego, CA, it seemed like a "no brainer". My wife was from the San Diego area and I was ready for a new challenge. I had worked at Sodexo for three years as a Director of Business Development. In this role, I had always appreciated the depth of service and support that Sodexo provided to our customers and to our own employees.
After I left Sodexo, I remained friends with several of my colleagues. We often compared notes about our jobs. Over time, I began to fully appreciate Sodexo's commitment to providing a professionally supportive, financially rewarding environment. Sodexo really stood out in so many ways. As a business development professional, Sodexo's well-earned reputation for providing exceptional service was a tremendous advantage. It's great to be back at Sodexo.
Lilibeth Garcia
Senior Recruiter, Houston, TX
After working with Sodexo for 4 years, I was disappointed that an opportunity wasn’t available for me in Houston, TX when my family was relocating there. I really enjoyed the company structure and culture, the great benefits and the commitment to training and development at Sodexo.
Thankfully I kept in touch with Sodexo through the Reconnexions program and was finally able to rejoin with a local position. Sodexo is a great company to work for; it provides great career advancement and networking opportunities. Sodexo also offers opportunities that help today’s work-life balance. Overall, I enjoy making every day a better day!
Andee Scalissi
Operations Manager 2, Food
Disneyland Resort, Anaheim, CA
Though I had an enriching experience working at Starbucks, I felt that the culture was very structured and limiting and my talents were not being utilized. Sodexo has always allowed me to run with my new ideas. That trust has brought me back. While I was away from Sodexo, I also learned that I knew more than I realized. I was comfortable with my decisions because of the experiences and constant learning opportunities offered by Sodexo. Now that I am back, I appreciate that every day presents new opportunities for growth and success. I feel that I am trusted to accomplish our goals and always given the tools to succeed.
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