The Hershey Company, headquartered in Hershey, PA, is a global confectionery leader that employs approximately 21,000 employees around the world who work every day to deliver delicious, quality products.

The company, which has been operating for more than 120 years, has more than 80 brands around the world that drive more than $7.4 billion in annual revenues, including such iconic brand names as Hershey's, Reese's, Hershey's Kisses, Jolly Rancher, Ice Breakers and Brookside. Hershey is also expanding its portfolio to include a broader range of delicious snacks. The company remains focused on growing its presence in key international markets while continuing to extend its competitive advantage in North America.

Alexandra “Alex” Oles is Hershey’s manager of D&I, engagement. She manages diversity and inclusion partners and Hershey’s eight business resource groups (BRGs). She’s a passionate advocate in helping to change mindsets and creating a workplace that embraces diversity.

Oles earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Poughkeepsie, NY-based Marist College and her master’s degree in human resource management from Loretto, PA-based St. Francis University.

 

 

Hispanic Career World

How is diversity part of your company culture?

 

Oles

At Hershey, diversity and an inclusive culture is about leveraging our rich history while harnessing the strengths and power of the changing workforce and marketplace. Our core belief is that our differences are one of our greatest strengths. We’re dedicated to fostering an environment where employees feel comfortable to share ideas and perspectives. Our eight BRGs - Abilities First, African American, Asian, GenH (Generations), Latino, Prism (LGBTQ), Veterans and Women - support our diversity and inclusive commitment in a variety of ways, including participation in talent activities and development, along with meaningful national and local partnerships.

 

Hispanic Career World

How does The Hershey Company recruit and attract a diverse workforce?

 

Oles

In collaboration with our partners, business leaders and our BRGs, we’re continuing to enhance Hershey’s pipeline of diverse talent. This includes partnering with several external organizations to help us attract, hire and retain a diverse workforce. We utilize numerous channels to attract and engage with talent, including social media, professional and virtual career fairs, publications, professional organizations, and colleges and universities.

 

Hispanic Career World

What traits, qualities and skills do you seek in a new hire?

 

Oles

Hershey is a consumer-centric, brand-building company that creates opportunities to prosper, bringing goodness to one another and the world. Aside from the skills and experience appropriate to the role, we seek people who are decisive, enjoy smart risk-taking, thrive on opportunities and have a desire to give back to communities around the world.

 

Hispanic Career World

What’s the best piece of advice you can offer to help others achieve their professional goals?

 

Oles

I love the opportunity to engage students or those starting out in their career. It’s such an amazing thing to see the potential everyone can achieve. My advice is to always be genuine in your interactions with others. Seek to embrace everyone’s thoughts and opinions, and get to know your colleagues. Strong relationships can lead to many opportunities, and your experiences can open many doors for you.

 

Hispanic Career World

How would you describe Hershey’s corporate culture? Why is it a great place to work?

 

Oles

Hershey has a unique and vibrant culture. We strengthen it with every person who comes to work for the company. It’s a culture of agile collaboration and it’s action-oriented with an openness to change.

Hershey’s passion is what makes it a great place to work, rooted in a passion for goodness - a passion that started with our founder Milton Hershey. Our efforts build on the legacy of Mr. Hershey whose commitment to helping children began in 1909 with the establishment of the Milton Hershey School.

 

Hispanic Career World

What types of jobs are you seeking to fill? Where can our readers view job opportunities at Hershey and apply online? And how can they connect with the company on social media?

 

Oles

I encourage those looking for opportunities at Hershey to look at the job postings and other resources contained on the company’s website, careers.thehersheycompany.com/us/en. There, you can learn more about Hershey, our remarkable people and our career opportunities. Also follow Hershey on Twitter @HersheyCompany and on Instagram @hersheycompany and find The Hershey Company on Facebook, facebook.com/HersheyCompany, and LinkedIn, linkedin.com/company/the-hershey-company.