July 17, 2023 – Providing the level of service Sodexo Live! is known for means attracting, supporting, and retaining the brightest in the industry. "There's a lot of competition out there to be the employer of choice," explained Mele Penitani, Human Resources Director at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando. "We would not be successful in creating a positive environment where team members want to work if our staff didn't feel recognized and appreciated."
For Sodexo Live! team members, creating unforgettable moments for guests is more than just a job. Here's a look at how our teams make engagement and appreciation an integral part of workplace culture.
Orange County Convention Center
With over 7 million square feet of convention space and 1,200 employees, the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) averages nearly 200 events a year that attract more than 1.5 million attendees to the region annually. "We have a lot of team members that work for us but also for the other huge hospitality companies in the area," said Penitani. "They may have just worked a 10-hour shift, but when they step foot in our building, they know that management recognizes how hard they're working."
OCCC has implemented a program to formally recognize staff, including Team Member of the Month, Manager of the Quarter, Team Member of the Year, and Manager of the Year awards, based on nominations from peers, supervisors, and managers. "We have personalized cards handmade for each recipient, and we set up a full breakfast with our entire management team. Winners are rewarded with a beautiful crystal trophy engraved with their name and a monetary award," explained Penitani. "But since we take the time to build relationships, we know our team members. We know if they enjoy reading or playing golf or traveling, so we also give them a special gift card for something they love to make sure they treat themselves."
Throughout the year, OCCC also hosts wellness fairs, financial seminars, massage stations, and even a Pumpkin Carve-Off competition. For Penitani and the entire OCCC management team, "It doesn't matter what your position is. To our team here, you're family. We're always thinking about what we can do next. How can we enhance what we already have in place?"
Intern turned HR and Banquet admin Jazmin Morales was awarded Team Member of the Month in 2022. "I'm a full-time team member and a full-time student. I was balancing work and schoolwork and just focused on doing my best and paying for tuition. I really didn't expect it!"
"I've always been interested in hospitality, but this job renewed my passion," Morales explained. "I don't feel like just another employee. They make every effort to make me feel part of the team."