The Hershey Co. Earns High Marks for Workplace Culture
HERSHEY, Pa. — The Hershey Co. is once again being recognized for its workplace culture and the employee experience.
The candy maker's U.S. business has been certified by Great Place to Work, a commendation determined by feedback from current employees — direct reflection of their firsthand experience at Hershey.
This year's survey of current employees noted pride in their work, trust in the brand and excitement in the company's future as particular strengths for The Hershey Co. The company's U.S. business joins operations in Canada, Brazil, India, Mexico and Malaysia in earning this certification honor.
"Our recognition again by Great Place to Work showcases our commitment to providing our employees a fulfilling experience focused on wellbeing, growth and career advancement," said Michele Buck, CEO of The Hershey Co. "We believe that an equitable workplace and culture fosters innovation, collaboration and growth — critical drivers which propel us forward on our journey to become a leading snacking powerhouse."
[Read more: The Hershey Co. Ranks Among Top Responsible Businesses]
Great Place to Work is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience and leadership behaviors proven to deliver market-leading revenue, employee retention and increased innovation.
"Great Place to Work certification is a highly coveted achievement that requires consistent and intentional dedication to the overall employee experience," said Sarah Lewis-Kulin, vice president of global recognition at Great Place to Work, adding that certification is the sole official recognition earned by the real-time feedback of employees regarding their company culture. "By successfully earning this recognition, it is evident that The Hershey Co. stands out as one of the top companies to work for, providing a great workplace environment for its employees."
Hershey's workforce is driven by a people-first culture of co-creation — empowering employees to embrace their authentic selves, take ownership of their work and unlock career potential. The Hershey Co. recognizes that its people are its greatest asset, actively investing in professional development and upskilling opportunities, the company stated.
Recent achievements and initiatives around Hershey's employee experience include:
Say Hola
Hershey promotes an equitable and accessible workplace by actively investing in employee development programs and adapting its facilities to accommodate different needs. Last year, the company launched its first U.S. bilingual manufacturing facility in Hazleton, Pa.
National Veterans Business Development Council
Hershey's legacy of supporting the U.S. military dates back to World War I when the company supplied chocolate to U.S. soldiers. Today, veterans continue to be a key part of its workforce, bringing unique perspectives and experiences.
In 2022, under the guidance of the company's Veteran Business Resource Group, Hershey partnered with the National Veterans Business Development Council, bolstering its access to diverse supplier networks. In 2023, the candy maker aims to deepen these ties and expand military-affiliated hiring across all roles with increasing its veteran hiring goal from 6 percent to 10 percent. This effort underlines Hershey's commitment to diversity and support for those transitioning from military to civilian life.
Parental Leave
Hershey is committed to supporting employees and their families through a set of competitive benefits, helping them be well, plan for their future, and balance work and life. As part of this commitment, the company increased salaried parental leave to up to 20 weeks in 2023.
"Great Place to Work certification underscores our commitment to creating a workplace where our employees can reach their full potential," said Chris Scalia, chief human resources officer, The Hershey Co. "We know our people can be their best when they feel their best. This means working to make sure everyone here feels supported, inspired and valued. To do this, we are constantly evolving to build a culture that values diversity, builds careers and embraces a strong sense of community."
According to Great Place to Work research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at certified workplaces are 93 percent more likely to look forward to coming to work and are twice as likely to be paid fairly, earn a fair share of the company's profits and have a fair chance at promotion.
[Read more: The Hershey Co. Bolsters Internal Supply Chain Network]
Pennsylvania-based The Hershey Co. has nearly 20,000 employees globally. The company has more than 100 brand names in approximately 80 countries worldwide that drive more than $10.4 billion in annual revenues, including Hershey's, Reese's, Kit Kat, Jolly Rancher and Ice Breakers, and fast-growing salty snacks including SkinnyPop, Pirate's Booty and Dot's Homestyle Pretzels.