Knowledge is powerful

RISE TO THE TOP: Evelyn Gates of McDonald's has progressed through the retail industry from a part-time crew member to director of human resources.

There is always something going on within [McDonald's]. As an industry leader we lead the way with new innovations. Over the years we have introduced systems and policies that enable people to do their job better, and helping the organisation perform better is hugely rewarding.

Evelyn Gates' recent appointment as director of human resources for McDonald's Restaurants has capped a remarkable rise to the top for the former head prefect of Wairoa College.

Evelyn first joined the company as a crew member in 1984, working for local franchisee Paddy Doyle while studying toward a Bachelor of Business with a major in human resources at Massey University.

Keen to explore the world, she travelled with her husband, Alister, to Japan, where she completed the final papers toward her degree by correspondence.

Immersing herself in another culture was a truly rewarding experience for Evelyn, both professionally and personally. Teaching English as a second language, she also learnt aikido, obtaining a black belt in the discipline.

On returning to New Zealand, the couple started a computer business in Auckland. After three years Evelyn decided to further her career in human resources.

Returning to McDonald's, she worked for Lindsay and Sharon Porter in Orewa as restaurant manager, gaining further experience and knowledge of the system. From here, she joined the company's head office in 1995 as human resources supervisor. Two years later she was promoted to human resources manager, and in February this year was appointed director of human resources to the company's senior management team.

Thriving on the everyday contact with those in the organisation, Evelyn combines strong restaurant experience with technical human resource knowledge and qualifications to great effect.

"McDonald's is a fantastic business that offers opportunities for people from all walks of life. There is never a dull moment and it is the type of place in which you are able to reap your own rewards,'' she says.

"There is always something going on within the company. As an industry leader we lead the way with new innovations. Over the years we have introduced systems and policies that enable people to do their job better, and helping the organisation perform better is hugely rewarding.''

Evelyn especially loves dealing with people, watching them grow and develop within the organisation. She's proud of her role within the company, and having an impact on the environment in which that development occurs is tremendously fulfilling, she says.

"People are our greatest asset. They really do make the difference and I am proud to say that the people in our business are energised, motivated and a critical factor to our success.''