HR & Employee Experience Manager
In her role as HR and Employee Experience Manager for McSteen, Melissa Gutowitz’s top priority is to help create a culture in which employees recognize both their current value and the future possibilities within the organization.
On a daily basis, Melissa supports the McSteen leadership team by researching and implementing strategies and events that strengthen the company culture and increase the well being of employees. Within this framework, Melissa manages the talent acquisition process and biweekly payroll, ensures compliance with all federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, and – most importantly – ensures the satisfaction of the McSteen mascot, Macie, with an ongoing supply of dog treats!
Prior to joining McSteen, Melissa worked in the Human Resources field in some capacity throughout her career, including in both the manufacturing industry and legal field. She earned her Associate of Arts degree in Business and is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s in Business Management with an expected graduation date in May of 2023.
As for what made her decide to join McSteen, Melissa says, “because they value and invest in their employees.” Recognizing that McSteen wouldn’t be where the company is today without their team, she says, “they provide a supportive and flexible environment where employees are recognized for their hard work and dedication.”
“I am excited to be working with a company who puts time and effort into helping their employees achieve their professional goals. Not only do I get to be a part of helping McSteen and its employees grow individually and as a company, they also are investing in my growth professionally.”
We had the opportunity to talk with Melissa Gutowitz about her work at McSteen, her goals for 2023, and how she likes to spend her time away from work.
What do you think makes McSteen different from other businesses in the industry?
I love how innovative McSteen is. I think that is the top factor that sets us apart from others in the industry. As a company we are not afraid to spend the time and resources to ensure that each member of the team has the tools necessary to be effective. McSteen also has a wonderful atmosphere for us to work in. They understand the importance of having a good work-life balance and provide opportunities for growth.
What is your favorite aspect of working at McSteen?
Having the freedom to be creative and innovative. Mcsteen encourages and welcomes new ideas and initiatives.
Can you talk about some of your first efforts with McSteen and how you feel the team responded?
One of my first efforts was to transition many of the HR responsibilities to myself that the management team had previously been handling. The team was very positive during this transition and really took the time to review their processes with me. Nothing felt rushed and I didn’t feel overwhelmed.
Once I settled into the day-to-day responsibilities of my position, I have had the opportunity to contribute to some employee experience initiatives such as a quarterly employee newsletter and creating an employee recognition program. Most recently I have been a part of creating our “Fun Committee” which is a group of employees who volunteer their time to help plan company events. The team has been very receptive to these initiatives and seem excited to have them in place.
Do you have any new initiatives planned for 2023?
Among my primary goals for 2023 are to develop a wellness program, assist in building the company intranet, and combining McSteen’s policies into a company handbook.
Do you have any specific tools that you use in your role as HR & Employee Experience Manager?
I use our HR system Rippling on a daily basis. I am also a Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) member and refer to them for updates, especially when it comes to compliance. ERC is another great tool when it comes to all things HR.
Tell us about your family
I have been married to my husband Dan for 15 years. We have two daughters whom our world happily revolves around. Cayla is 13 and Emily is 11. We also have two German Shorthaired Pointers named Marlin and Kimber. They are brother and sister and are 8 years old. There’s never a dull moment in our home, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!
How do you like to spend your free time?
Between work, school and my kids I don’t get a lot of free time! LOL But when I do I like to spend my free time outside. I enjoy swimming, hiking at all the awesome parks we have nearby, skiing or just sitting outside reading a book. I just love to be outdoors.