McDonald’s South Africa recognised as a top employer

The certification was awarded following an independent and rigorous assessment across six key HR domains: Steer, Shape, Attract, Develop, Engage and Unite.

A significant proportion of the workforce comprises youth and women, highlighting the organisation’s role in promoting youth employment, skills development and gender inclusion.

Receiving the top employer status enhances the company’s external reputation as an employer of choice aligned with its values. Internally, it bolsters employee pride by demonstrating the organisation’s dedication to growth, development and overall employee experience.

McDonald’s South Africa’s commitment to talent development is exemplified by its impressive 71% retention rate within its learnership programme, as well as the existence of Hamburger University, the company’s dedicated training institution.

Employees who did not remain with McDonald’s after the learnerships pursued other career opportunities, which reflects the quality of development provided. Additionally, the CATHSSETA programme engaged 1 400 learners, with notable outcomes: 476 learners were permanently absorbed into McDonald’s South Africa, approximately 658 transitioned to careers elsewhere, and around 200 declined job offers to explore other options.

During the assessment, McDonald’s South Africa’s leadership approach, employee engagement initiatives, and talent acquisition strategies were evaluated. The results reaffirm the company’s dedication to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and high-performance organisational culture rooted in people-centric leadership.

Looking ahead, McDonald’s South Africa recognises that its next opportunity for growth and continued excellence lies in further investment in automation, integration and advanced digital HR platforms.

These enhancements will support a seamless interface between the various role players across the employee lifecycle, strengthening operational efficiency while enabling an even more connected, data-driven, and employee‑centred HR ecosystem.

“Our vision of Accelerating the Arches and our mission to create feel-good moments for everyone – from employees and customers alike-continue to inform our daily operations.

Being recognised as a top employer strengthens our reputation as an employer of choice that upholds our values. It also reinforces a sense of pride within our organisation by demonstrating our investment in employees’ growth, development, and overall experience,” stated Dr. Mamello Masia, Chief People Officer of McDonald’s South Africa.

Beyond being a workplace, McDonald’s South Africa positions itself as a platform for meaningful career growth, where individuals can begin, evolve and succeed. From the kitchen to the boardroom, every role is valued, and every career path is supported. The organisation exemplifies a business with heart-Made for You.

“This recognition serves as a powerful reminder of the culture we have cultivated-one that nurtures careers, empowers talent, and ensures that every member of our organisation feels valued, supported and inspired,” concluded Dr. Masia.