Singapore, 6th April 2009

Barely a week after receiving honours at the Hewitt Best Employer Award in Singapore, McDonald’s (Singapore) receives another recognition at the Asia-level. McDonald’s (Singapore) was awarded recognition at the prestigious Hewitt Best Employers in Asia study for the first time, reaffirming the value of its “People-First” culture.

McDonald’s “People-First” culture stems from the belief that by “taking care of our people, the business will take care of itself.” In the quick-service industry, this is perhaps most true – as a happy employee would mean happy customers. The foundation of McDonald’s people strategies is built on the commitment of providing continuous career opportunities, and to create an inspired and passionate workforce that will contribute greatly to the company’s service leadership reputation. 

Over 900 organisations registered to participate in the fifth Hewitt Best Employers in Asia 2009 study, the largest and most comprehensive employee-based study in Asia. The study was conducted in eight most dynamic markets in Asia, and received input from over 180,000 employees representing a workforce of some two million people. Best Employers in Asia are selected from the local markets’ lists of Best Employers and evaluated by a regional panel. Evaluation criteria includes adjusted combined company scores, sustainability in good and bad times, challenges of big and complex firms, cultural alignment and quality and quantity of employee comments.

“We are elated to have won the Hewitt Best Employer Award (Singapore) for the second time – and now, to add another feather to our cap at a regional level is such a great honour. We are proud of all that we do to always put our people first, and that our efforts have gained both local and regional recognition during our 30th anniversary year, ”saysAlex Yeo, General Manager, McDonald’s Restaurants.

Despite the current economic downturn, McDonald’s has continued to invest in their people with continuous training and developmental opportunities The quickservice restaurant has also continued to hire staff, offering opportunities to more people to grow with McDonald’s.

He added, “We hope to attract people who want to build a long-term career to join us. As a Best Employer, McDonald’s is committed to people investment by providing  continuous training and opportunities for growth. We want our people to grow to their fullest potential and to be lovin’ what they do.”

Based on internal feedback, employees view McDonald’s as an employer of choice:

• for a long-term career – where every crew can be a manager as continuous opportunities for training and development programmes are provided at each level, to improve their knowledge in operations and business management skills

• that provides portable skill sets that employees can take with them as they continue their careers within, or outside of McDonald’s

• that provides opportunities for all employees to gain internationally-recognised qualifications from an established university through McDonald’s University Accredited Programme (UAP)

• that respects individuals’ lifestyles, commitments, aspirations and provide flexible work schedules that allow for work-life balance

• that provides support, flexibility and an engaging environment for women joining or rejoining the workforce

• whose people feel proud, valued and inspired to contribute to the company’s goals (Annual internal surveys have consistently shown that over 95% of its people are proud to work at McDonald’s, and are highly committed to the brand)

McDonald’s workforce has grown 16% from 6,000 to 7,000 employees this year. The company supports a diverse and inclusive workforce comprising a cross-section of the community: students, young adults, women with special needs, mature workers and also polytechnic/university graduates who are eligible for the company’s Fast Track programme.