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Human resources (HR) in the convenience store industry play a key role in the operational success of the business, especially when there are always new faces to work with and mentor. Kate Hannon, director of human resources and payroll at The Rutter’s Cos., knows the importance of being committed to her employees and supporting their needs.
As employee retention remains a top priority for convenience store operators, it’s more important than ever to connect with employees personally and show appreciation.
With approximately 20 years of experience in human resources, Hannon has honed his skills in this area and actively seeks to address employee concerns and provide assistance.
“One of the most valuable aspects of my role is the opportunity to interact with our diverse associates every day. Whether interacting with associates in our stores, corporate offices or dairies, each interaction provides a unique connection, An opportunity to be listened to and supported,” Hannon said. “These interactions not only foster stronger relationships but also provide valuable insights into the needs and concerns of our team members.”
CStore Decisions presented Hannon with the Human Resources Award for her commitment to her team and constantly going above and beyond to keep all employees informed, updated, and assisted.
Hannon’s career path
As of December 2023, Hannon serves as director of human resources and payroll for Rutter’s, which has 86 stores in Pennsylvania, Maryland and West Virginia, with more opening soon.
However, her career path began in accounting.
“(I realized) that shortly after, my desires took a different direction. Human resources seemed to be a better fit with my career goals, prompting me to change my major,” Hannon said.
Hannon also decided to pursue a master’s degree in human resource management.
Over 14 years, Hannon built his career at Valenti Mid-Atlantic Management, the Wendy’s chain. She started at the company as a benefits manager and was later promoted to human resources manager.
Following the franchise sale in 2017, Hannon joined Rutter’s as a human resources generalist.
“After meeting Suzanne Cramer, who became my supervisor, I was convinced that Rutter provided an environment and team in which I could thrive,” she said.
Hannon was promoted to Human Resources and Payroll Manager in October 2018 and remained in that position until his most recent promotion in December 2023.
At Root’s
“I have been given a number of responsibilities that are critical to the smooth functioning of our organization,” Hannon noted.
These responsibilities include employee relations, workers’ compensation, unemployment, benefits oversight and labor code compliance.
However, Hannon primarily focuses on mentoring and supporting Lott’s employees and managers in various capacities.
“I assist managers in understanding and adhering to company policies and procedures, fostering a culture of compliance and accountability throughout the organization,” she said.
While at Rutter’s, Hannon worked on many projects designed to better help the team.
For example, she worked with supervisors to update employee handbooks, which need to be constantly up to date with the chain’s current policies and regulations.
“Our main goals are two-fold: to increase the effectiveness of these manuals for managers responsible for their execution, while also ensuring that these manuals are easily accessible and understandable to our employees,” Hannon said.
However, Hannon’s role is not without challenges, one of which is effectively communicating company plans across the chain’s network of more than 80 stores, taking into account varying levels of technical confidence, varied schedules and seasonal employment.
Still, Hannon noted that the Lott team hopes to always use “innovative approaches and strategic planning initiatives to enhance engagement and connections among all Lott employees.”
reward work
“In my role at Rutter’s, I have always strived to learn more about our business and continue to be the person employees can go to for help,” Hannon said.
In order to be that person to Rutter employees, Hannon is dedicated to taking on each day as it comes and thriving on the experiences that come with her position.
“What I cherish most about my role is that no two days are the same, and that comes from working in human resources for a company with nearly 3,000 employees,” Hannon said. “This energetic nature keeps me focused and motivated. Embracing the diversity and challenges that each day brings allows me to grow personally and professionally while adapting to the ever-changing needs of our organization and its employees.”
Hannon also recognizes the value of working with a committed team. She added that she enjoys the collaboration that comes with her role in HR, and the supportive nature of the team allows them to achieve their goals effectively.
Hannon notes that it gives her a real sense of reward to see her team’s collective efforts translate into real results that benefit others.
“Rutter’s is constantly evolving and is a truly innovative company, so I can’t wait to see what we can do in the future, especially in terms of human resources,” Hannon said.
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