Meet the Accelerators: Davita Lister, Director of Dining Services
In 2021 FLIK's Entrepreneurial Council, launched a career-focused program to invest in the growth and development of Black associates called the EC Accelerator. The EC Accelerator Program identifies Black associates with an interest in advancing to positions of leadership and supports them on their career pathway with coaching and mentorship, training and resources, an EC partner-advocate, and a community of peer support with other Accelerator participants. During annual talent review meetings, senior executives highlighted seven individuals' achievements and nominated them to participate in our inaugural Accelerator cohort.
Meet the associates in our new spotlight series in their own words. First up: Davita Lister, Chef and Director of Dining Services.
What brought me to Compass/FLIK? What has kept me firmly planted here?
I was actually recruited by HR. They found my resume on a job site and gave me a call to see if I was looking for a job. [At the time,] I was a Culinary Director for a memory care facility and was not actively looking, but the opportunity sounded interesting. I did not know much about Compass/FLIK [then], so I did a little research and liked what I saw...the FOOD, the programs, and the overall philosophy. The District Manager at that time called and set up a chef test for me and then I met him in person. Three weeks later, I started as the Director of Dining Services at an independent school, a brand new account in the Dallas/Fort Worth area for FISD. Five and a half years later, we are still going strong and just signed another 5-year contract [at the school].
There has been so much growth within the company; my role has changed over the last 2 years. I serve as a Champion in several groups -- Safety, Finance, and Diversity & Inclusion. I am excited about the new chapter and opportunity that has opened up with the Entrepreneurial Council Program. I assist my DM in the local district with training new managers. It is awesome seeing the diversity that has developed within our district and the company.
It was a divine blessing that brought me to Compass and that has kept me here. I see the company making a true effort to recognize and promote diversity.
A little about me:
Born and raised in Dallas, Texas. I have lived in several other states but came back to Dallas because it is my home and where most of my family resides. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and spent the first part of my career working in Finance/Payroll. Later in life, I decided I wanted to pursue my passion for cooking and decided to attend culinary school starting a new career.
Why I love what I do:
My mom was a teacher, but she also had a passion for food. Despite no formal culinary training, she decided to start her own company. With just her passion for food, a lot of hard work and her natural talent in the kitchen, she was able build a successful catering business. I have many wonderful memories helping her in the kitchen and I credit her for passing on this passion for food and inspiring me to go to culinary school. She was known for her cooking abilities and loved for her “put-a-smile-on-your-face” personality. Just an all-around angel! My mom is my reminder to always work hard and pursue what you love. That love was forever present in her cooking.
Food is not just sustenance. For me it reminds me of warmth, family gatherings, being in the kitchen with my mom, Black culture and most of all LOVE!
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At FLIK Hospitality Group we believe in great food, great service, and great people. Our wellness first approach ensures our food supports healthy and delicious choices, specially curated by our team of culinary experts and registered dietitians. At FLIK, we believe in seasonality in sourcing our ingredients and providing a customized approach to the culinary and hospitality needs of each client. Our dedication to providing quality hospitality service is unparalleled in the industry.
Join our team and see the FLIK difference. Where a job isn’t merely a job but the start of a career where you can flourish. Check out our current openings here:
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