“We train more people than the U.S. Army.” -Karen King, McDonald’s USA’s East division president
According to Ad Age, Karen King joined McDonald’s 30 years ago in Lawrenceville, Ga. Today she manages some 5,000 restaurants, comprising 36% or $10 billion of revenue for the domestic system. Today she’s also the star of a new ad campaign that seeks to rid the world of the very concept of “McJobs.”
“If you have the will, drive and dedication, there is limitless opportunity to make a career under the arches,” Ms. King said. McDonald’s said 30% of franchisees, 50% of corporate staff and 70% of restaurant managers began as crew. Of the top management — including CEO Jim Skinner — 40% started behind the counter.
Chicago Tribune reports that more than 600,000 people work at McDonald’s USA’s 13,700 restaurants.
The hamburger giant tried promoting careers two years ago with mixed results by shining the spotlight on famous individuals who once worked at McDonald’s, such as singer Macy Gray, 10-time Olympic track and field medalist Carl Lewis and professional speedskater Derek Parra.
