40: David Hawthorne, Chief People Officer at Anchor Point (formerly Pacific Bells)

#OpenUpTheWorkforce

Presented by Symba, #OpenUpTheWorkforce interviews feature executives advancing inclusion, diversity, and equity for the future of work. In these short audio-only episodes, host Ahva Sadeghi speaks with top leaders about what it takes to develop and implement inclusive processes.

In this episode of #OpenUpTheWorkforce, we're joined by David Hawthorne, Chief People Officer for Anchor Point Management Group, LLC. With a portfolio that extends beyond the iconic Taco Bell to include names like Buffalo Wild Wings and European Wax Center, Anchor Point exemplifies diversity in branding and opportunity. Having joined Anchor Point early in his career, David has risen through the ranks, embodying the potential for growth and leadership within the multifaceted world of hospitality and services. In the last two decades, David's expertise has propelled him from HR Manager to Chief People Officer. David's career path isn't a linear climb, but a fascinating journey rich with diverse experiences.

Our discussion with David delved into the complexities of fostering a unified culture within Anchor Point's diverse landscape. He shed light on the crucial role general managers play in shaping the atmosphere at individual locations, and the challenges of integrating macro and microcultures after acquisitions.

Through his insights, David offered valuable lessons in building organizational synergy. However, the true differentiator for Anchor Point lies in its focus on the finer details. As David highlights, the shift from "employees" to "team members" or "associates" reflects Anchor Point's commitment to building a strong sense of community and belonging within its workforce. Let's explore David's approach to leadership at Anchor Point. Here, success goes beyond the menu – it's about serving with passion, purpose, and a unique perspective that David brings to the table.