Sodexo Leaders: Building Purpose-Driven Careers That Last
What does it take to build a meaningful, long-lasting career? At Sodexo, the answer lies in our people-first culture, opportunities for growth, and a deep commitment to purpose. Whether starting as a student worker or stepping into the company mid-career, our leaders have not only found strong careers but a place to grow, lead, and give back.
Meet four Sodexo leaders whose journeys show just how far passion, support, and staying true to your values can take you.
Martin Ng
Joined Sodexo: 2001
First Sodexo Position: Student Worker, Campus Dining
Current Position: Head of AI and Data Products, North America
Martin Ng’s 24-year journey at Sodexo is a powerful example of long-term growth, adaptability, and the values of saying yes to new opportunities. He joined Sodexo’s dining team as a dishwasher at his university and later landed a paid internship in accounting with Sodexo Healthcare. This opportunity led to his first full-time role as a financial analyst after graduation.
His career took a new turn when he moved into tech, eventually becoming Head of IT for Sodexo Canada. In 2016, he relocated to the U.S. as Global CIO for the Home Care domain, and in 2022, he became Head of AI and Data Products for North America.
Reflecting on his time at Sodexo, Martin shares, “The most impactful programs for me have been mentoring and sponsorship. I have had many mentors who guide and support my career growth at Sodexo.”
Programs such as Sodexo’s Impact mentoring initiative, along with the support of inclusive leaders and Employee Business Resources Groups (EBRGs), have played a vital role in his success. Martin values the people, purpose, and opportunity to make a difference every day, in hospitals, schools, workplaces, and beyond.
Ada McNeill
Joined Sodexo: 2014
First Sodexo Position: Senior HR Generalist, in unity HRM
Current Position: VP Human Resources (Schools Segment)
Ada McNeill was drawn to Sodexo’s commitment to service, development, and making a positive impact beyond business results. Though she wasn’t actively looking for a new role at the time, our mission stood out and aligned with her personal values, ultimately leading her to say yes.
Since joining, Ada’s journey has been shaped by continuous growth and cross-functional experience. Ada has worked across Facilities Management, Food Service, Corporate Services, Schools, and Energy & Resources, gaining a well-rounded perspective that supports her current role as VP of Human Resources for the K-12 Schools segment.
Mentorship has been a major part of Ada’s journey. She has participated in multiple mentoring programs as both a mentor and mentee, and she values the connections, learning, and personal development they’ve provided.
“The company’s commitment to professional development and internal mobility through mentorships and employee resource groups has been instrumental in my career progression, leading me to my current role.”
Ada’s story proves that when your values align with your work, incredible growth follows.
Joe Ganci
Joined Sodexo: 1986
First Sodexo Position: Dishwasher through college work-study program
Current Position: President Sodexo Corporate Services
Joe Ganci has been a part of our Sodexo family for nearly 40 years. One reason Joe has stayed with us this long is because of our culture. Joe believes our culture stands apart because it encourages individuals to bring their whole selves to work and consistently show up for each other.
“Sodexo encourages people to come to work and be themselves. This fosters a healthy culture that I enjoy being a part of.”
Beyond the culture, Joe has thrived on the countless opportunities for growth. Throughout his career, he has utilized every opportunity to progress, from volunteering for new account openings, special projects to leadership roles. These opportunities gave him the experience and exposure he needed to prepare him for the next opportunity. His steady rise through our company is a testament to our culture of mobility and trust in its people.
Wayne Dyer
Joined Sodexo: 1990
First Sodexo Position: Frontline Cook
Current Position: Corporate Services Workplace Senior Vice President
Wayne Dryer’s 35-year journey at Sodexo is a true story of growth, resilience, and leadership. Starting as a front-line cook, he steadily advanced by embracing new challenges and staying open to learning.
A pivotal moment came 15 years into his career, when he was offered the opportunity to transition from food into facilities management.
“My manager at the time, gave me the chance to prove myself and I have expanded my responsibilities ever since,” Wayne shares.
Wayne credits much of his growth to mentorship, first as a mentee learning the ropes of a new field, and later as a mentor to countless emerging leaders. His leadership is grounded in empathy, experience, and the belief that people grow best when given room to learn from their mistakes.
For Wayne, the most rewarding part of his career is the people. Seeing colleagues grow into leadership roles and offering guidance to help them succeed is what makes his work meaningful and motivates him the most.
Build Your Future with Us
These stories reflect the real paths of growth and leadership at Sodexo. Whether you’re just starting out or ready for your next chapter, these stories are a reminder that with the right support and a willingness to say yes, there’s no limit to where you can go.
Ready to build your own path? Explore opportunities at Sodexo and discover where your career can go.
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