Arby’s has named Melissa Strait its first chief people officer, a move that culminates her 30-year rise from the unit level to the executive ranks of the Atlanta-based quick-service operator.
Strait was previously senior vice president of human resources and leadership development. In her new position, she will report directly to Arby’s CEO Paul Brown. She will lead the company’s talent management programs across the country.
“Melissa has been an instrumental advisor during my first year and a half as CEO,” Brown said in a statement. “She is a great ambassador of our people and culture and this new position is a direct reflection of the importance we place on our team members.”
Strait started working with Arby’s as a team member at a restaurant in her home state of Michigan in 1984. She graduated from Hope College with a degree in psychology. By 1995, she became director of training and in subsequent years worked both for the chain’s franchisees and then the franchisor. She was named vice president of training and development in 2000, before being promoted to senior vice president.
Her career path from entry-level employee to C-suite executive was a consideration in the promotion.
“The fact that she began as an entry-level restaurant team member and worked hard to rise to the top of the organization is a testament to the career opportunities we at Arby’s strive to provide,” Brown said.
“Melissa leads by example and fosters a culture of servant leadership among our combined 71,000 company and franchise team members globally.”
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