Donnie Upshaw, Chief People Officer and SVP of Corporate Restaurants at Wingstop, said the brand not only weathered the pandemic storm, but posted unprecedented sales figures thanks, in part, to the brand’s strong, diverse people foundation. Diversity permeates throughout the organization, with equal or majority diversity across team members, brand partners, the Board of Directors and interns.
He is particularly proud of the Speak Your Flavor series at Wingstop, which celebrates diversity of thought by giving team members a safe space for ongoing and open dialogue. This series supports his belief that the team is strongest when each person is seen, heard, and supported. Donnie says the company does not have a diversity quota, but rather the organization cares more about genuine value adds and diversity of thought. The Wingstop value system is called The Wingstop Way which is ingrained in the fabric of the company’s culture where the team is dedicated to being service-minded, authentic, entrepreneurial, and fun.
FAVORITE QUOTE: “I’ve always believed that one of the best ways to give back is by bringing others along with you and giving opportunities to those who might not normally be given a shot. We must celebrate what makes us all different, as this is the true driver of culture and inclusion.” — Donnie Upshaw