Award leaves McDonald's manager 'lovin' it'

Lunchtime is always busy at the Hancock Village McDonald’s, but the real excitement began last week as one of the midday shifts wrapped up.

Ronald McDonald popped in, accompanied by a crew of regional officials seeking one of the restaurant’s own for a special recognition.

Yvette Neville, McDonald’s restaurant manager at Hancock Village in Chesterfield, was named a 2011 Ray Kroc Award winner, and the surprise visit alerted her to the special recognition.

Neville, a McDonald’s employee since 1982, said she no idea the prize crew was coming for her, and was momentarily overwhelmed by the honor.

“I was totally surprised,” she said. “I knew I was nominated but had no idea that I had won.”

Each year McDonald’s bestows the prestigious Kroc award on less than one percent of its managers. The recognition carries a $2,500 check from headquarters, but Neville walked away with double that amount, thanks to appreciative owner-operator Dave Traub. He said employees like Neville are hard to find and she deserved the one-of-a-kind recognition.

“Yvette’s exceptional dedication to her customers and crew is what makes her a valued member of McDonald’s,” said Traub. “She is a tremendous asset to my team and I congratulate her on receiving this honor. Yvette truly embodies the characteristics of the elite Ray Kroc Award winner. She’s as good as it gets and she’s the gold standard for McDonald’s store managers.”

The admiration is mutual. “Dave’s an awesome guy,” she said. “He’s a hands-on owner who is in the restaurant and will help with whatever you need.”

In addition to the money, Neville received congratulations from top McDonald’s officials, a bouquet of flowers, balloons and a cake. She’s been the manager at the Hancock location since the store opened in 2009.

But, for Neville, McDonald’s has become a part of her life, and has even touched many of her family members. “My brothers and sisters also work for McDonald’s because they’ve seen my success. It’s a family affair,” she said.

Neville is married to another McDonald’s employee, Rick, and they have four children, most of whom have taken a turn at the counter at the national landmark.

The longevity of her career hasn’t diminished her appreciation for a long and steady climb through the ranks. “I owe everything to McDonald’s. I tell my employees that I wouldn’t have the car I drive or the roof over my head if it wasn’t for McDonald’s,” Neville said.

Neville splits a healthy dose of dedication between her customers and her crew, often visiting the store during her time off to ensure things are running smooth. She rewards her employees with special gifts and parties when they go the extra mile.

“I love my team. I wouldn’t be where I am without them. They do wonderful things for me,” Neville said.

With four kids, Neville said the extra money will come in handy. And, in her usual humility, she said she plans to share the money.

“I plan on giving some of this back to my community. This award has really touched my heart.”