Aramark is deeply committed to fostering leadership through a variety of pathways, with a significant focus on engaging and empowering young professionals. Two of the company’s most impactful programs aimed at developing future leaders are the Step Up to Leadership (S2L) program and the Accelerate to Leadership (A2L) program. These initiatives serve as vital entry points for students and early-career professionals, offering them meaningful opportunities to launch their careers and hone their leadership skills.
Melanie Hunter: Driving Early Career Success
Melanie Hunter, Aramark’s Early Career Talent Acquisition Manager, plays a pivotal role in connecting young professionals with these transformative programs. Leading a team of dedicated recruiters, Melanie ensures that students have access to impactful internship and full-time opportunities through S2L and A2L. With over 12 years of experience in early career talent acquisition, her expertise spans diverse industries and renowned organizations such as L’Oréal, Bloomberg LP, Comcast NBC Universal, and Google.
A graduate of Rider University with a double major in Human Resources Management and Management & Leadership, Melanie’s educational background aligns perfectly with her professional mission. Her passion for talent development has enabled countless students to find their footing in the professional world. Currently based in Philadelphia, Melanie resides with her fiancé and their beloved cat, Sammy. Her leadership in early career recruitment has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of leaders at Aramark.
Casie Coxson: Championing Leadership Development
Casie Coxson serves as the Senior Manager of Global Learning and Leadership Development at Aramark, where she oversees the design and facilitation of leadership development programs. Her journey with Aramark began in 2017 when she joined the A2L program after completing her undergraduate studies at Florida State University. Since then, Casie has built an impressive career in the hospitality industry, combining her operational expertise with her passion for learning and development.
In her current role, Casie acts as an internal learning consultant, conducting training needs assessments and serving as a liaison to field and functional teams across all lines of business. Her contributions extend beyond leadership development; she is also a Hub Co-Chair for Pride, Aramark’s Employee Resource Group dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ workforce, allies, and the broader community. Casie’s dedication to inclusivity and education underscores her holistic approach to leadership.
Casie’s academic achievements further highlight her commitment to personal and professional growth. After earning her undergraduate degree, she pursued a Master of Leadership Development from Penn State University. Currently residing in Philadelphia, Casie continues to drive impactful learning initiatives that empower Aramark’s workforce to thrive.
Leadership Journey Mark This Episode 28 Accelerating Your Path to Extraordinary Success
Marcus Powell: Leading in Sports and Entertainment
Marcus Powell, a Senior HR Manager within Aramark’s Sports+Entertainment division, exemplifies the opportunities available through the A2L program. Marcus began his Aramark career in 2017 as an A2L participant on the Compliance team. Since then, he has risen through the ranks, gaining extensive experience in human resources and supporting high-profile events such as the Super Bowl, U.S. Open, and Travelers Championship.
In his current role, Marcus serves as the on-site and district HR professional for premier sporting arenas, stadiums, and cultural attractions in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. His responsibilities include managing HR operations, fostering employee engagement, and ensuring compliance with organizational policies. Marcus’s ability to navigate the dynamic world of sports and entertainment is a testament to the strong foundation provided by the A2L program.
Marcus’s journey reflects Aramark’s commitment to nurturing talent and providing growth opportunities across various business lines. His contributions have not only enhanced the company’s HR capabilities but also elevated the employee experience at some of the nation’s most iconic venues.
The Step Up to Leadership (S2L) Program
Aramark’s S2L program is designed to give students a head start in their careers by providing hands-on experience in a dynamic and supportive environment. Through internships and early-career roles, participants gain valuable insights into the industry while developing essential skills that prepare them for leadership positions. The program emphasizes mentorship, practical learning, and exposure to real-world challenges, making it an ideal platform for aspiring professionals.
S2L participants are placed in various roles across Aramark’s diverse business lines, including food services, facilities management, and hospitality. This diversity of experience allows them to explore different career paths and build a well-rounded skill set. By the end of the program, participants are equipped with the tools and confidence needed to take the next step in their professional journeys.
The Accelerate to Leadership (A2L) Program
The A2L program takes leadership development to the next level by targeting recent graduates and early-career professionals. This structured program is designed to fast-track participants into leadership roles within Aramark. Over the course of the program, participants receive comprehensive training, mentorship, and real-world experience that prepare them for long-term success.
A2L participants are placed in various departments, such as operations, finance, and human resources, allowing them to gain a deep understanding of the business. The program’s rotational structure ensures that participants are exposed to multiple facets of the organization, enabling them to develop a holistic perspective. Additionally, A2L participants benefit from ongoing support and guidance from senior leaders, who help them navigate their career paths and achieve their goals.
A Commitment to Inclusivity and Growth
Aramark’s leadership development programs are not just about advancing individual careers; they are also about fostering a culture of inclusivity and growth. The company’s commitment to diversity is evident in its support for Employee Resource Groups like Pride, which create a sense of belonging and empower employees to bring their authentic selves to work. This inclusive approach ensures that all employees have equal opportunities to succeed and contribute to the organization’s mission.
Through initiatives like S2L and A2L, Aramark is building a pipeline of talented leaders who are well-equipped to drive the company’s success in the years to come. By investing in the development of young professionals, Aramark is not only shaping the future of its workforce but also making a positive impact on the industries and communities it serves.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders
The stories of Melanie Hunter, Casie Coxson, and Marcus Powell highlight the transformative power of Aramark’s leadership development programs. These individuals exemplify the company’s commitment to nurturing talent, fostering growth, and creating opportunities for young professionals to thrive. Their achievements serve as an inspiration to the next generation of leaders, demonstrating what is possible when talent meets opportunity.
Aramark’s dedication to leadership development extends beyond the boundaries of the workplace. By empowering young professionals through programs like S2L and A2L, the company is not only shaping the future of its own workforce but also contributing to the broader goal of building stronger, more resilient communities. As these programs continue to evolve, Aramark remains steadfast in its mission to unlock the potential of emerging leaders and drive meaningful change in the world
