Donna Josephson, Chief Marketing Officer at McAlister’s and Indiana Native with A Healthy Do-Gooder Streak   

Donna Josephson is the Chief Marketing Officer and Vice President of Global Marketing for McAlister’s Deli – one of those national restaurant brands that is a godsend to stressed-out professionals, with its “fast-casual” promise of delicious, promptly-served food and a setting that is a step above the neon plastic of burger joints.

Josephson enthusiastically enjoys the marketing arena, saying that “it is really an inspiration to create and tell that story to introduce new consumers to this brand” and lists a somewhat dizzying number of job aspects that keep her busy, with “marketing and culinary R&D, brand marketing, advertising, and new product development” just the beginning.

Before she worked at McAlister’s, she accrued an impressive national brand resume, working for Wendy’s, Applebees,  and Chick-Fil-A.  She is an Indiana native, a wife and mother, a volunteer for the Easter Seals Organization, and a fan of the protein-and-probiotic-packed “breakfast of champions” for this generation of fit-conscious women: Greek yogurt with honey.   Interestingly, she aspired to be a pathologist before transitioning into the “corporate restaurant” area, and very early on, was a “Sunshine Aide” in a nursing home, which dovetails with her interest in “the spirit of making things better and giving” that she says has always been a big part of her consciousness.

Can you tell the readers a little bit about yourself?
I am a Marketing Exec for McAlister’s Deli, with responsibility for all marketing and culinary R&D, including identifying and executing key business drivers, brand marketing, advertising, new product development, menu strategy, pricing, PR, communications, field marketing and franchise support.  I am also married and have two daughters.

What does a day in your shoes typically look like?
“Typical” doesn’t happen often, but when it does it is filled with Marketing Team meetings or R&D ideation sessions and test-planning. There is usually some quality time with team members in one-on-ones, and we always find ways to include laughter and fun! 

What are the first three things you do when you wake up in the morning, and the last three things you do before you go to bed?
Wake up: Exercise, check in for an inspirational quote, and get ready for the day!
Off to Bed: Ready all needs for the next day, say good night to the family, read.

What is your breakfast of choice?
Greek yogurt with honey. 

What keeps you energized and motivated at work?
Watching my vision and ideas take shape, come to life, and see them drive positive results. 

What and who inspires your work?
I am so grateful to have been entrusted to help build a great brand like McAlister’s. The guests, the team and the franchisees who have built this brand over time are so passionate. It is really an inspiration to create and tell that story to introduce new consumers to this brand.

What is the favorite part of your job?
Building high-performing teams, and mentoring those just starting their careers.

How does your culture/background influence your work?
From my parents to other mentors, I have been blessed with people in my life who seek to make a positive difference. Whether it be helping people, communities or businesses, grow and progress, that spirit of making things better and giving has always been a part of my life, and I like to think I bring that spirit to my work. 

What is your favorite leisure activity after a stressful work week?
Swimming, reading, and sitting and sipping wine with great friends.

What has been your biggest obstacle in your career and how did you overcome it?
Myself!  Not believing or having the confidence in my own talent and abilities early in my career.  I was fortunate that mentors pointed this out, and as I learned to believe in myself good things began to happen!  

How do you differentiate yourself from your competitors?
Be open-minded and willing to accept change. Embrace and tackle the challenges that change brings. Always try to be proactive as opposed to reactive. Finally, build strong networks and relationships that are mutually beneficial.

How many times have you changed your career direction?
Just once, when I was in school. I originally wanted to be a pathologist!

Three questions you like to ask during an interview to know if the candidate (or job) is the right fit?
“What has been your favorite position to date and why?”
“What motivates you to wake up before the alarm each morning?”
“What are your long-term career aspirations?”

What are the most important qualities of a good leader?
To be a “Strategic Visionary” who can provide an aspirational vision to the organization that is strategically in line with the marketplace for growth. Having integrity and trust to build relationships, partnership and team member’s abilities to execute the vision. And having a good focus on priorities, to set the course for the team.    

What advantages do you see as a woman in the workplace?
It is a great opportunity to be a role model for my daughters and other women I work with and have met throughout my career. 

What advice would you give women starting their career?
Believe in yourself, be curious and always seek to learn and be willing to learn from others regardless of their status or position in life. Everyone has something to teach.

What book would you recommend for women just starting their career?
Springboard: Launching Your Personal Search for Success by G. Richard Shell (2014, Portfolio Press). 

Favorite Quote: “If it is to be, it is up to me.”