Employees at SSA SuperMom's bakery represent 10 nationalities and speak Hmong, Laotian, Spanish,
English and several other languages. SuperMom's bridges the cultures with programs and services
to help employees grow professionally and personally, improve communications and foster
cooperation. These include training and development opportunities, such as classes in English as
a Second Language for Spanish-speaking employees. A strong mentoring program has resulted in
women and people of ethnic descent holding more than 90 percent of team lead positions. Employees
may have an interpreter from a neutral third party present when they have confidential
conversations with Human Resources representatives. Through these and other diversity efforts,
the SuperMom's workforce is developing the skills needed to keep pace with sales of baked goods
and sandwiches for SSA stores.
The Company emphasizes leadership development, starting with the New Supervisor Development Program. Potential leaders are nominated by their organizations to attend the Marathon Strategic Leadership Program, where they learn about the Company's strategy and values from senior leaders, make team presentations, and hear from leadership experts. Employees identified through the succession planning process participate each year in the Marathon Visionary Leadership Program. World-class external experts and Marathon professionals present content on industry trends, detailed scenario planning, value innovation and creation, ethics and other topics.
To further develop their capabilities, Marathon leaders receive feedback from their co-workers at all levels. Approximately 350 supervisors reviewed this "360° feedback" with guidance from external performance coaches in 2007.
Non-retaliation and Grievance System
Marathon employees have a variety of options for reporting and settling issues,
disputes or conflicts without fear of reprisal. The Company promotes open, honest
communication in the workplace and encourages employees to first work directly
with their supervisor to resolve issues. Local Human Resources consultants and
other resources are also available.
