24 LEADERS
POWERING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
GUIDING WHAT’S NEXT
AMY KEISTER
GLOBAL DIRECTOR OF SUSTAINABILITY, COMPASS GROUP
21 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
Food connects us all and connection can drive lasting change.
— AMY KEISTER
What I love most about my role is bringing sustainability to life in ways that make a real difference. Food connects us all, and at Compass Group, I work with teams who share a belief that connection can drive lasting change. Whether it’s reducing waste, supporting local farmers, or creating healthier dining experiences, every effort builds toward something bigger, a food system that truly nourishes people and the planet.
I focus on embedding sustainability into every decision we make. More importantly, I lead with empathy and a bias toward action. Empathy helps me understand the perspectives of our associates, clients, and communities; action ensures we turn those insights into progress. Leadership means listening first, then moving decisively to create solutions that work for everyone. That balance makes sustainability not just a to do, but a shared mindset.
Food has the power to connect, heal, and inspire. I’m driven by the belief that we can build a food system that honors both people and the planet and by the responsibility to leave things better for those who come after us.
My grandmother grew up during the Great Depression and taught me that food is precious and never to be wasted. On her farm, I learned the true value and meaning of food, respect, gratitude, and care. Those lessons still guide how I lead today: with empathy, purpose, and a bias toward action
ALESHIA MCMATH
GLOBAL DIRECTOR OF INCLUSION, OPPORTUNITY & WELLNESS, COMPASS GROUP 14 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
My role allows me to connect with brilliant colleagues across Compass Group. What fuels me most is learning from diverse voices and partnering with people whose passion makes this work meaningful. Each day offers a chance to listen, grow, and be inspired.
Designing a better future begins with listening — deeply and consistently — to the experiences of our people. Through the lens of Culture, Opportunity & Inclusion, my focus is turning their stories and feedback into strategies that uplift our organization. It means rethinking how we define leadership, care, and contribution to ensure associates across roles and regions have access to meaningful development and growth opportunities. And it will always be about co-creating spaces where everyone feels they matter. We don’t build the future by accident. We build it intentionally — with inclusion as our daily practice and opportunity as our promise.
What drives me is a bedrock belief that everyone deserves to thrive — not just survive. I’ve witnessed the power of access, empathy, and equity to transform lives. Sustainability and inclusion go hand in hand, because we cannot create a better future if we’re leaving people behind.
At the heart of it, I’ve been blessed to witness the power of access, empathy, and equity to transform lives, thanks to my first love — my mother and her loving care and support of our community. And the incomparable Dr. Maya Angelou — the poet, singer, dancer, actress, writer, civil rights activist, and truth-teller whose work celebrates dignity, courage, and shared humanity — has always inspired me to lead with authenticity and compassion.
We don’t build the future by accident. We build it intentionally — with inclusion as our daily practice, and opportunity as our promise.
— ALESHIA MCMATH
ZANNE BURØ CEO, NORTHERN EUROPE 3C, COMPASS GROUP
12 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
If it doesn’t scare you a little, your goal probably isn’t big enough.
— ZANNE BURØ
What I love most about my role is the people I work with. Seeing others grow, thrive, and excel gives me a deep sense of purpose. Empowering people to reach their full potential is what drives me every day.
Designing a sustainable future starts with redefining leadership — breaking the norms of how a leader should act, lead, dress, or speak. I lead with authenticity, openly sharing my experiences with insecurity, mental health, and balance, on both good and tough days. By being transparent, I hope to inspire others to pursue their dreams, even when it feels uncomfortable. If it doesn’t scare you a little, your goal probably isn’t big enough.
Inclusion isn’t a gender issue — it’s a human one. Real change happens when we work together: when men champion women into leadership and when women lift each other up. A culture of support and trust sustains us all and helps every individual feel seen, valued, and confident.
I’m inspired daily by the women around me, and I make it a point to tell them, “You inspire me.” Sometimes, that’s all someone needs to feel seen, valued, and confident.
HEATHER HARJES CHIEF ACCOUNTING OFFICER, COMPASS
GROUP NORTH AMERICA
24 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
What I enjoy most about my role is developing people, which to me means figuring out what really makes them tick. What gets them jumping out of bed in the morning, versus crawling back under the covers? I spend much of my day talking with my team and colleagues about their priorities, resources, and plans. I’m motivated by supporting individuals in identifying and leveraging their unique strengths so they can do their best work and continue to grow.
I help design and sustain a better future by focusing on practical processes and systems that work for people — getting out of the way so they can do their best work. Increasingly, that includes opening new pathways through the thoughtful use of AI tools to reduce manual effort, surface better insights, and allow teams to focus on higher-value work. My goal is to help teams spend less time navigating friction and more time delivering thoughtful, responsible outcomes that ultimately support our operators and clients.
What drives my commitment to a more sustainable and inclusive future is the belief that long-term sustainability is built through trust, opportunity, and inclusion. When people feel seen, heard, and valued, they bring their best ideas forward, and that’s how lasting progress happens. In finance especially, women and other underrepresented groups bring perspectives that challenge assumptions and strengthen decision-making, which is essential for building resilient, forward-looking organizations.
Along the way, I’ve been influenced by many women I’ve worked for and alongside throughout my career. Watching them balance empathy with strength, and lead with both credibility and care, has deeply shaped how I lead today.
My goal is to help teams spend less time navigating friction and more time delivering thoughtful, responsible outcomes.
— HEATHER HARJES
LORI LIMING
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF TRANSFORMATION, CHARTWELLS HIGHER ED 20 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
I love the dynamic nature of my role. Every day brings new opportunities to innovate and connect with our teams and guests. Leading transformation allows me to shape experiences that matter, drive meaningful engagement, and create lasting value for our organization. It’s incredibly rewarding to approach challenges like a puzzle — collaborating with clients to fit the pieces together and watching our shared vision come to life in ways that positively impact both communities and teams.
Designing a better future means creating inclusive strategies that prioritize both people and planet. Whether it’s implementing sustainable sourcing practices, enhancing team development programs, or launching initiatives like Chartwells’ Strategic Growth and Innovation Council, I’m focused on building environments where innovation thrives and communities benefit.
My mom taught me that even the smallest gesture can make a big difference — a kind word, a helping hand, or simply believing in someone’s potential. That’s what drives me: creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and encouraged to grow.
Dolly Parton’s generosity, humility, and belief in the power of education continue to inspire me. Her example reminds me that leadership is about lifting others up and doing good wherever you can.
Even the smallest gesture can make a big difference.
— LORI LIMING
RITU DEWAN
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, EASTERN
DIVISION, EUREST 14+ YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
Sustainability, to me, is human — it’s about fostering resilience, empathy, and opportunity in all we do.
— RITU DEWAN
What I love most about my role is the ability to lead with purpose — connecting people, performance, and progress. Each day brings a chance to shape strategy while empowering others to bring their best selves forward. I’ve led Mentoring Circles, championed the Launch a Sponsorship initiative, and participated in the Thrive global women’s program — each reinforcing the power of inclusive growth. Seeing confidence bloom, leadership emerge, and purpose take root makes the work meaningful. When our people thrive, our business thrives too.
Designing a better future begins with intentional inclusion and empowerment. As Executive Sponsor for an Empowerment Resource Group, I focus on cultivating environments where everyone — from our teams to our guests — feels valued, respected, and connected. When people experience belonging, it shows in how we care for our guests and serve our communities. Inclusion isn’t just a principle; it’s a leadership practice that sustains both people and purpose.
My commitment to a sustainable and inclusive future is deeply personal. Growing up in India and now leading in a global organization, I’ve seen how inclusion and equity transform lives. Sustainability, to me, is human — fostering resilience, empathy, and opportunity in all we do.
Indra Nooyi’s leadership — defined by clarity, compassion, and courage — inspires me. She’s shown it’s possible to lead with both heart and high performance. Like her, I believe in leading authentically, with empathy as strength and purpose as strategy.
KATIE CORNWELL SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF DISTRIBUTION AND COMPLIANCE, FOODBUY
10 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
We work for this wonderful organization whose purpose is bringing joy to people, whether that’s through food or a clean environment or a thoughtful hospitality experience. I believe in that purpose wholeheartedly. What I love most about my work is the people. I get to lead a team filled with early-career associates and deeply tenured colleagues, all bringing an energy and competitiveness that push me to keep raising the bar. There’s a culture of no complacency at Foodbuy — and across Compass — that inspires us to outperform ourselves year over year. Their drive encourages me to look ahead and stay focused on what’s next.
Sustainability, for me, includes preparing our organization for the future as technology and AI transform how we work. My leadership is shaped by the belief that everyone deserves a seat at the table. Early in my career in commercial construction, I was given opportunities to sit in rooms above my pay grade, and I work to ensure my team — and the next generation — has the same.
My greatest influence is my mother, Molly Spearman — a true rock star. Somehow, she did it all. She began as a music educator, served in the South Carolina legislature, and later became South Carolina’s Superintendent of Education. Her leadership, devotion to our family, and unwavering faith continue to guide me as I work to lead with balance, empathy, and intention.
We work for this wonderful organization whose purpose is bringing joy to people.
— KATIE CORNWELL
SHAPING OUR CULTURE
I’m so lucky to do this work — developing leaders for the future and building workforce readiness. I love solving big problems that have long-term, systemic impact. Legacy work matters deeply to me. One of the best parts of my role is modeling how to build a legacy that lives on in our associates through their career journeys.
For me, designing a better future begins with collaboration. The future requires an intense amount of it to keep us truly connected to one another. It can be too easy to let our devices or AI agents become our only sounding boards — but a better future depends on human connection, curiosity, and conversation.
My commitment to a sustainable and inclusive future comes back to legacy. I even have a “legacy board” — a visual reminder of the impact I hope to
A better future depends on human connection, curiosity, and conversation.
ANGELA GENARO RUILOVA VICE PRESIDENT, TALENT DEVELOPMENT, HR, COMPASS GROUP
3.5 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
make. On it are the things I want to be known for: noticing others, taking an interest in who they are, and helping them grow. My commitment is rooted in gratitude for the people who did that for me — those who poured into my development and helped me find my path. Paying that forward is how I sustain my purpose.
I’ve had the privilege of working for remarkable women, each influencing me in different ways. I think often of those who raised young kids before flexible work existed, single moms who exceeded their capacity every day, and women who walked into rooms where no one looked like them — and said, “I belong here.” They remind me that we are stronger than we think we are.
Leadership isn’t just about authority — it’s about empowerment, compassion, and collaboration.
ALICIA ASKEW
REGIONAL
VICE PRESIDENT,
SOUTH CENTRAL REGION, CHARTWELLS K12
5 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
Team member education and growth are cornerstones of everything we do, and I love being able to share knowledge and empower others. Whether I’m leading training programs, developing curriculum, or supporting outreach initiatives, I find great joy in helping people understand important issues and encouraging them to take action. Watching others develop new skills and a passion for success is one of the most inspiring parts of my role.
Lifelong learning is key to sustainable growth. I strive to create an environment where team members are empowered to learn new skills and adapt to changing needs. That means providing access to training, mentorship, and resources for development — and extending that same mindset to our clients and communities. Through workshops, partnerships, and educational outreach, we can raise awareness and inspire responsible action. By cultivating curiosity and sharing knowledge, we prepare ourselves and others to meet future challenges with resilience and innovation.
My commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive future is driven by the desire to eliminate barriers — gender, race, ability, and socioeconomic status — and to foster a culture where everyone feels valued and opportunity is universal.
Throughout my leadership journey, I’ve been fortunate to learn from many remarkable people, but one woman stands above the rest — my mentor from my first multi-unit role. Her guidance, friendship, and unwavering commitment to advancing female leadership shaped how I lead today. She exemplified the power of advocacy and empathy, creating an environment where every voice, especially those of women, was heard and valued. She showed me that leadership isn’t just about authority — it’s about empowerment, compassion, and collaboration.
I love creating learning experiences that unlock potential and drive growth. Seeing associates gain confidence and thrive through development programs is incredibly rewarding. It’s why I do what I do every day.
I help shape a more sustainable future by building inclusive pathways for growth. Through programs like HiPo and Apprenticeship, we empower highperforming associates and open doors to skilled trades, especially for women entering traditionally male-dominated fields. These initiatives not only strengthen our workforce but also create lasting impact in the communities we serve.
Sustainable futures are built through access, mentorship, and the courage to challenge the status quo.
NICKIE DWYER DIRECTOR OF LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT, SSC SERVICES FOR EDUCATION
6.5 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
I believe that when we invest in people — especially those whose potential is often overlooked — we create ripple effects of opportunity, equity, and innovation. Sustainable futures are built through access, mentorship, and the courage to challenge the status quo.
Brené Brown’s work on vulnerability and courageous leadership has profoundly influenced how I lead and connect with others. Her message — that brave leaders have hard conversations, lead with empathy, and create spaces where people feel safe to grow — continues to inspire me to lead with heart and purpose.
Real leadership isn’t about titles or recognition; it’s about showing up for others, especially when it matters most.
JENNIFER GRANILLO PEOPLE TALENT AND DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, RESTAURANT ASSOCIATES
3 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
I find purpose in showing up with care — connecting with our team in ways that help them (and me) grow stronger. There’s nothing more rewarding than removing barriers so others can reach their goals and seeing that effort create a lasting, positive impact on our business.
It all begins with listening — truly listening — to the needs of our team and the communities we serve.
I believe everyone has a story filled with dreams and strengths waiting to be supported. Designing a better future means creating a rich employee experience where those individual stories are honored and transformed into meaningful, lasting impact for all.
My commitment is grounded in the belief that by cultivating trust, celebrating our shared humanity, and providing the “why” behind what we do, we strengthen inclusion and ensure every voice is valued.
My mom was a Home Economics teacher for nearly 40 years and made a lasting impact on countless lives. Her students adored her and often told her
so through yearbook notes, graduation speeches, heartfelt letters, and hugs that said it all. She tutored pregnant teen moms to help them graduate, reminded them of their worth, and showed them they had a future. When she saw students struggling at home, she quietly showed up — with groceries, encouragement, and help for parents to rebuild life skills and strengthen their families.
I also watched her face challenges with grace. Passed over for promotions because her students were considered “troubled” or “too blue collar,” she never let that stop her. She led with empathy, determination, and humility, being exactly who her students needed most: a role model, mentor, and steady presence.
Her example shaped how I lead today. She taught me that real leadership isn’t about titles or recognition; it’s about showing up for others, especially when it matters most. Today, I celebrate my mom and all the women who, despite the challenges they faced, never stopped making a difference.
What I enjoy most about my role is the opportunity to build meaningful relationships. Every day brings new challenges and chances to collaborate, problem-solve, and deliver solutions that make a real difference. I take pride in supporting a team that’s passionate about service excellence and finding innovative ways to create value for the clients we serve.
I design a better future by striving to be my most authentic self — a continuous journey of growth and self-awareness. Authenticity is something I strive for every day, in my work, my leadership, and my relationships. I believe that when I show up as my best, most genuine self, it gives others permission to do the same. By leading with authenticity, I hope to build trust, inspire confidence, and create space
Creating space for others to thrive isn’t just part of my work; it’s part of my purpose.
IMANI GAY ATKINSON
REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT,
CLIENT
SERVICES,
CANTEEN ONE 12 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
where others feel seen, valued, and empowered to bring their best selves forward.
What drives my commitment to a more inclusive future is the desire to help carve a path for underrepresented groups. There is so much incredible talent within diverse communities that too often goes overlooked. If I can play even a small role in lifting up those voices, then I know I’m contributing to meaningful progress.
I’ve grown up with Compass, guided and supported by many strong women — leaders like Yolanda Walker, Andrea Woods, and Christine Woodward — whose strength, grace, and authenticity continue to shape how I lead and how I strive to support others on their own journeys.
BUILDING SMARTER SOLUTIONS
MEGAN FOREMAN VICE PRESIDENT, DATA CONSULTING, E15
10 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
I want my daughters to inherit a world they can be proud of. That means making decisions at work and at home that move us closer to a sustainable future. At Compass, I see how the work we do with data can make that difference at scale — giving our teams and clients the information they need to act responsibly.
I’m inspired by Kim Scott, author of Radical Candor, whose work reminds me that strong leadership means caring personally while challenging directly. Her approach reinforces the value of transparency, trust, and accountability — essentials for leading teams that solve complex problems and support others through data and insight.
I’m lucky to work with a great team of smart, curious people who love solving complex problems. We get to ask the right questions, uncover insights, and turn data into dashboards that help our operators and clients make better decisions every day. It’s equal parts strategy, storytelling, and solution-building — and that’s what keeps it interesting.
My team develops tools like our carbon emissions and sustainability dashboards that help Compass and our clients see the impact of our operations. Those insights support datadriven sustainability goals, transparency, and smarter choices that reduce waste and protect our planet for the long term.
Strong leadership means caring personally while challenging directly.
— MEGAN FOREMAN
LENISE OATES
HR CONSULTANT, CORPORATE 4 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
What I enjoy most about my role is solving technical challenges to design, build, and scale data solutions for our HR teams. Each partnership gives me the opportunity to learn from different functional areas and help bring their data to life through visualization. There’s something incredibly satisfying about translating complex information into insights that empower better decisions.
I focus on building scalable analytics solutions that promote transparency and smarter decision-making. By helping leaders and HR practitioners better understand our workforce, we can uncover trends and design strategic interventions that drive lasting improvement
When we use analytics responsibly, we create opportunities for inclusion and belonging.
— LENISE OATES
across the business. When we use analytics responsibly, we don’t just measure performance — we create opportunities for inclusion, belonging, and more equitable outcomes.
I’ve always been inspired by Ursula Burns, the first Black woman to lead a Fortune 500 company as CEO of Xerox. Her story of resilience and relentless growth reminds me to embrace every opportunity, no matter how inconvenient, and to lead with both courage and curiosity.
OPHIR WAINER VICE PRESIDENT, PRODUCT & DIGITAL EXPANSION, COMPASS DIGITAL 5 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
Innovation thrives when every voice has space to contribute. Building inclusive teams isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s how we unlock better ideas and outcomes for the communities we serve. That sense of shared purpose drives me every day.
I’m inspired by leaders who pair conviction with curiosity. Women like Brené Brown remind me that strong leadership isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about creating trust and belonging so others can shine.
What I love most about my role is helping teams bring bold ideas to life — translating vision into tangible impact. Product work at Compass sits at the intersection of strategy, creativity, and collaboration, and I get to empower incredible people to solve meaningful problems every day.
I focus on creating clarity and alignment so teams can move fast and confidently toward what matters most. By designing systems that foster autonomy and continuous learning, we build products — and teams — that scale impact sustainably.
Innovation thrives when every voice has space to contribute.
— OPHIR WAINER
MEI YU VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE, CHARTWELLS HIGHER ED 21.5 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
What I enjoy most about my role is the ability to turn complex financial information into clear, actionable strategy that helps leaders make confident decisions. I thrive on partnering with teams, identifying opportunities for improvement, and contributing to the financial stability and long-term success of the organization. I also value being a trusted resource, whether that means solving critical problems or guiding teams through financial processes while ensuring accuracy throughout. The combination of strategic impact, collaboration, and problem-solving is what makes my work fulfilling.
I help build a better future by creating clarity, support, and stability for the people I work with. When I simplify processes, solve problems, and provide insights that enable confident decision-
Turning complexity into clarity helps people make confident decisions. — MEI YU
making, I’m helping teams do their best work. By leading with empathy and integrity, I help create an environment where our teams and the communities we serve can thrive.
I’m driven by the belief that every decision we make can help create a more inclusive, supportive, and sustainable future. Knowing that my work can lift others up, open doors, and create positive impact is what inspires me to lead with purpose and integrity every day.
In that spirit, the technology executive and engineer Dr. Lisa Su has been a major influence on my leadership journey. Her bold vision, steady leadership, and people-centered approach remind me to stay curious, lead with confidence, and empower those around me.
NOURISHING COMMUNITIES
SHORNA BANERJEE
“INTRAPRENEUR” SENIOR EXECUTIVE CHEF, FLIK HOSPITALITY GROUP
8 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
I like to keep it simple: win over the world with kindness.
I love that I get to meet the best of FLIK wherever I go. I get to spoil not only our guests but also our employees with my culinary magic — that’s what fuels me every day.
I like to keep it simple: win over the world with kindness. Kind Kitchens start with caring for our employees so they can show up for our guests in meaningful ways. Be kind to guests by listening, meeting their needs, and creating memories. Be kind to the planet by rethinking how we cook and operate. Partnering with local food rescues helps us make an impact in the communities where we live and work. We can truly change the world, one kitchen at a time.
In 2024, I created Tapestry — a FLIK program that showcases authenticity and gives chefs alternative career paths by highlighting their unique culinary talents. At Compass, we have experts in every cuisine. Tapestry celebrates inclusivity, opportunity, and knowledge-sharing — a model I hope will go global.
The women of Compass continue to inspire me — leaders like Aleshia McMath, who makes everyone feel they matter and lifts them up through her words; Erica Lee, who imagines the unimaginable; and my mother, Meena Banerjee, for being a master chef and master everything who taught me sustainability long before it was popular.
I get to plan and be part of some of the biggest and boldest festivals, concerts, and live events in the world — all while shaping the future of our industry. What excites me most is building Levy’s Festivals Division from the ground up and developing leaders who embrace innovation, technology, and sustainability to deliver unforgettable guest experiences. We’re not just keeping up with the industry — we’re setting the standard for what’s next.
Because our teams operate coast to coast, we intentionally partner with local and small businesses to bring each community’s flavor and spirit into our events. We also collaborate with food recovery programs to donate surplus goods and reduce waste. This past year, we went a step further by using solar power to fuel our events — creating a more sustainable future for live experiences.
I care about building things that last — strong teams, confident leaders, and experiences that evolve with the industry. Sustainability isn’t a trend; it’s a responsibility. It’s about using innovation to operate smarter, reduce waste, and lead boldly. The legacy I want to leave is one where our festivals set the standard — not just for great experiences, but for how we care for our people, partners, and planet.
I’ve always been inspired by Cleopatra, a woman who led with intelligence, confidence, and strategy. She understood that leadership isn’t about control, but influence — aligning people, ideas, and opportunity to create lasting impact.
CELENA OLCESE VICE PRESIDENT OF FESTIVALS, LEVY RESTAURANTS
13 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
Sustainability isn’t a trend; it’s a responsibility.
KITAMI LENTZ SENIOR DIRECTOR OF STRATEGY AND PERFORMANCE, BON APPÉTIT MANAGEMENT COMPANY 12 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
A sustainable future begins with a people-first approach always.
The challenge of an ever-growing and changing environment keeps me engaged and on my toes. I love finding creative and strategic solutions to complex business problems — that’s what energizes me every day.
A sustainable future begins with a peoplefirst approach always. We’re a peopleserving business that thrives by uplifting our teams and enabling them to be their best. When we invest in our people — their talents, growth, and development — we all succeed.
For me, creating a sustainable and inclusive future starts with listening. When we make space for others to be seen and heard, we allow them to show up as their best selves. And when our team members show up as their best selves, we sustain the best outcomes for our business.
I’m inspired by my collective village of women — mentors, managers, friends, sisters, and colleagues — who’ve shaped the leader I am today. Each, in their own unique way, has offered radical feedback, unconditional love, and unwavering support. They remind me that leadership is a shared journey built on connection, courage, and care.
Advocating for initiatives that improve the environment gives me a deep sense of purpose. My career naturally shifted from clinical management to sustainability, inspired by my plant-based lifestyle of 17 years. I feel as though this work chose me rather than the other way around.
Transitioning into this role has broadened my understanding of the interconnectedness between food choices and environmental impact. I’m grateful to collaborate with colleagues who share this vision, whether we’re minimizing food and packaging waste or educating about the benefits of supporting local farmers. The culture of sustainability is growing within our company, and seeing the ripple effect on our guests and communities shows that thoughtful action truly makes a difference.
A better future means making environmentally sustainable choices that support health and wellbeing. Reducing food waste, creating plant-forward menus with a lower carbon footprint, and working with ethical suppliers all drive positive change. These choices safeguard our planet and the wellbeing of those we serve and set a precedent for responsible leadership. Acting with intention builds trust and inspires a future where health, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship are fundamental values.
I believe we’ve reached a point where action is no longer optional. Those we serve rely on us to lead responsibly and uphold our values. By holding ourselves accountable, we set a positive example for others and move toward the future we want to create.
On a more personal note, I’m inspired by the wisdom, strength, and grace of Michelle Obama. She demonstrates that true leadership is about serving a mission rather than oneself.
HEATHER FARKAS, RDN, LDN DIRECTOR OF SUSTAINABILITY, MORRISON HEALTHCARE
12 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
I feel as though this work chose me rather than the other way around.
TATIANA (CHEF TATI) ORTIZ
EXECUTIVE CHEF, CHARTWELLS HIGHER ED
6.5 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
No matter who you are or where you are from, you are always someone’s inspiration.
The most rewarding part of my work is sharing who I am and what I know through cooking — passing on knowledge, creativity, and passion to the people around me. Leading a team is more than giving instructions; it’s about inspiring purpose, building confidence, and helping people discover talents they didn’t know they had. I take pride in building strong teams and uncovering hidden potential, both theirs and, at times, my own. For me, the true magic of leadership lies in supporting growth, refining skills, and fostering potential.
Staying authentic and honoring my origins is essential. Authenticity is a form of strength, and I believe progress comes from being true to yourself. Life’s challenges have taught me resilience, and modeling that perseverance helps my team overcome their own obstacles.
I help design and sustain a better future by leading with empathy, integrity, and respect — creating environments where people feel empowered. My goal is to help people find their voice and reach their full potential. Through collaboration, sharing knowledge, and mentoring others, my focus is on strengthening my team, enhancing the experience of our guests, and nourishing the communities we serve.
Nourishment shows up in many forms. Two women who have inspired me are Princess Diana, for her humility and belief in equality, and Michelle Obama, for her confidence, authenticity, and radiant presence. Their examples are a reminder that empowering others is the greatest legacy. No matter who you are or where you are from, you are always someone’s inspiration.
PROTECTING WHAT MATTERS
NICOLE ADOLPHUS
ASSISTANT GENERAL COUNSEL, CORPORATE LEGAL
5 YEARS WITH COMPASS
GROUP
As Compass Group’s in-house benefits and ERISA attorney, I partner closely with the Total Rewards, Labor Relations, and cross-functional teams on benefit-related matters. Working for a dynamic, multi-sector company that leads its industry brings daily opportunities to feed my intellectual curiosity, be part of something great, and build meaningful connections. No two days are ever the same! I find immense joy in learning, supporting, and collaborating with teams from multiple disciplines toward a common goal — and in taking the time to laugh and enjoy each other’s company along the way.
For me, designing a sustainable future takes many forms. It means providing legal support that helps bring our Total Rewards programs to life for associates and their families. It also means championing equitable access to
education and surrounding myself with villages of women who empower one another. Their strength and wisdom keep me moving forward, step by step, toward a more sustainable future. Everything we build today should make life better for those who come after us. Our children, grandchildren, and future generations are depending on us.
My greatest current inspiration is my daughter, who became a mother herself in 2024. Watching her navigate the wonderful world of raising her son has been a daily reminder that the heart of great leadership starts with genuine care for others and acting on that care – people and places thrive when they are cared for.
The heart of great leadership starts with genuine care for others.
— NICOLE ADOLPHUS
MAGS BOYLE
REGIONAL DIRECTOR, SOUTHWEST, CANTEEN
9.5 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
I love being part of a company that’s constantly evolving. It’s been such a fun journey to contribute to Canteen’s success and growth. I believe that success comes from our culture of innovation — we’re always looking for better ways to do things and challenging ourselves to grow. Just because that’s how we’ve done it in the past, doesn’t mean it’s how we’ll do it in the future. My role is to keep that spirit alive: to encourage curiosity, challenge our teams, and lead in ways that make a lasting impact. I’m constantly amazed by the work we do together.
Just because that’s how we’ve done it in the past, doesn’t mean it’s how we’ll do it in the future.
— MAGS BOYLE
When I first joined Compass, I often felt intimidated. But as I grew, I built strong connections and benefited from our inclusive culture. While there’s still work to be done, I strive to be a resource for others and help strengthen that culture of inclusion — ensuring everyone feels supported, valued, and empowered to grow.
I’ve been fortunate to learn from incredible women who shaped my leadership journey. My mom, who worked in tech in the ’90s, showed me resilience and balance. And leaders like Maggie Fisher, Aleshia McMath, Michele Lanigan, and Kylene Ott have each transformed how I lead and who I am today.
JOURDAN BALL
VICE PRESIDENT, COMPLIANCE, CORPORATE LEGAL
8 YEARS WITH COMPASS GROUP
My role in compliance is unique in that it supports all aspects of our company across every sector and state. We get to see how everything is done, from start to finish. It’s a privilege to learn from the brilliant teams that make Compass the success it is today.
Sustainability is about stewardship — of people, resources, and trust. I contribute by helping teams make thoughtful, comprehensive decisions that protect our reputation, empower individuals, and ensure our operations leave a positive imprint on both our communities and the planet.
But sustainability is more than protecting resources — it’s about protecting potential in our environment, in our successes, and in the innate goodness of the work Compass does for the communities we serve. I want future generations, including those who come after us at Compass, to inherit systems, cultures, and communities that are stronger, fairer, and more resilient than we found them.
I’m particularly inspired by Sandra Day O’Connor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg — the first two female justices of the U.S. Supreme Court. Though ideologically different, both overcame discrimination and resistance to achieve greatness through courage, intellect, and perseverance.
Sustainability is about stewardship — of people, resources, and trust.
— JOURDAN BALL