McDonald’s, Oakbrook Park, Ill.

McDonald’s has an inclusive environment on both sides of the counter. Over the years, several agencies and publications have recognized it as a “Best Place to Work” for African Americans, Hispanics, Asians and people with disabilities.

Diversity is apparent at levels of the organization. More than half McDonald’s leaders, directors/senior directors, managers and restaurant managers are women and people of color. And 43 percent of franchisees are women and minorities. 

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McDonald’s offers a diversity education curriculum with classes such as “Winning with Inclusion and Diversity,” as well as career development coursework for women and minorities. Its online mentoring program allows employees to find mentors according to their needs and preferences.

The McDonald’s system supports five employee business networks for African Americans, Hispanics, Asians, women and gay/lesbian/allies. The networks host symposiums every two years. 

McDonald’s also is committed to a diverse supply system. In the United Sates, it buys more than $5 billion annually in goods and services from minority and women-owned suppliers. That represents more than half the company’s spending on food and paper.

In addition to its diversity within the organization, McDonald’s partners with several community organizations. The partnerships help enhance McDonald’s image in the community, aid recruitment and improve efforts to be closer to its guests.