Seasoned HR Exec Spices Things Up At Checkers

On her first day as Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Checkers*, Lori Malcolm already had challenges that even the brand’s long-time employees would find daunting. She had to replace her No. 2, who was leaving the company in two weeks, and turn a tiny HR department into a powerful, sustainable branch that could successfully help support the more than 800 Checkers and Rally’s locations nationwide.

However, with previous experience at IBM, Disney and Walmart, Malcom was a seasoned human resources executive with the ability to create strategic HR plans to fit company-wide goals.

In her interview with Bizwoman, Malcolm shared the three-part strategy that helped her build the strong human resources department that will help grow the Checkers and Rally’s franchise.

First, Malcolm advised that people must be smart about who they hire. Rather than hire someone similar to herself, she chose the candidate who would best complement her strengths.

Next, she explained that a human resources department must incorporate its company’s broader goals into its strategy. When she built the HR branch at Checkers, she met with the marketing, finance and operations departments to ensure that her plans aligned with everyone’s needs and goals.

Last, she highlighted the importance of integrating the HR department into talent training and development. When new employees are hired and trained, they shouldn’t be constantly passed around between the HR and training departments. Malcolm combined the two processes at Checkers and it has been better for the company overall.

At Checkers, a strong human resources department helps create a solid corporate team. This in turn supports franchisees to help them better serve their customers.

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