Manager of McDonald’s restaurant in Troy receives prestigious global award

Kristy Cook, manager of the McDonald’s Restaurant in Troy, has won a Ray Kroc Award, an accolade that recognizes the top performing McDonald’s restaurant managers globally.

Cook was one of 365 McDonald’s restaurant managers around the world, from 60 markets — representing the top 1 percent of restaurant managers — to receive the honor, which includes a cash prize and a trophy.

Cook, who has been working for McDonald’s for 20 years, will be awarded her prize April 22 at the Ray Kroc Awards Gala in Orlando, Florida, hosted by Chris Kempczinski, McDonald’s president and chief executive officer, and David Fairhurst, McDonald’s executive vice president and chief people officer.

Cook said, “Being in the top 1 percent of one of the biggest restaurant chains in the world is crazy. Troy is my hometown, so I was excited to be brought in to improve the store and fix the issues. It feels good to now hear positive things about this store in the community.

“I am proud of the turn around the store has made and believe I have one of the best teams around. I made it a point to get to sit down with each crew member and get to know them personally. My key to success is treating everyone like family, not just an employee. I am looking forward to continuing my growth with McDonald’s. The possibilities are endless.”

McDonald’s independent franchisees and regional management nominate restaurant managers for the Ray Kroc Awards to recognize their hard work, dedication, and commitment to McDonald’s and its customers.

Tracy Timmons, area supervisor for the Dave Embry organization, said, “We are incredibly proud that Cook was recognized by McDonald’s with the Ray Kroc Award as one of the top General Managers in the company. We have long considered Cook to be an invaluable asset in our organization.

“She is committed to delivering great customer service and hospitality to our guests. Cook’s team follows her lead and strives to make guests happy on each and every visit. We look forward to another year of remarkable results from Cook and her team in Troy.”

This story was originally published January 10, 2020 at 11:00 AM.