When Cheryl Eakes first walked into the MRCO Taco Bell 21 years ago, she had no idea that she would one day become the Payroll Manager. “Accounting was not my thing,” she laughs. Yet today, she oversees the payroll for hundreds of employees, ensuring that everyone is paid accurately and on time.
A Leap of Faith for Family
Cheryl’s journey began out of necessity. She was seeking insurance for her son and reached out to family members for job leads. Her ex-aunt-in-law, who previously worked in the accounting department at MRCO, helped her secure an interview. “I ended up getting an interview, nailed it, and got the job,” Cheryl says.
She started as a filing clerk in the payroll department and over time, her dedication and attention to detail did not go unnoticed. “I slowly worked my way into payroll and eventually took over,” she says.
Embracing the Unexpected
Never in her wildest dreams did Cheryl envision a career in payroll, especially not with a fast-food company. “I never thought I’d be working in payroll for Taco Bell,” she admits. But it was the company’s culture that drew her in and kept her motivated.
“The MRCO environment is really great. They genuinely treat you like family here.”
Cheryl Eakes, Payroll Manager
Cheryl speaks fondly of the camaraderie among her colleagues. “If you have something good happen, everybody celebrates with you. If you have something bad happen, everybody supports you,” she says.
“I plan to retire from here. I don’t plan to leave unless they make me.”
Cheryl Eakes, Payroll Manager
Keys to Success: Honesty and Accountability
Working in payroll comes with significant responsibilities. “You’re dealing with a lot of people’s money, and it’s terrifying,” Cheryl admits. However, she has learned valuable lessons along the way. “Honesty, integrity, and accountability are crucial,” she emphasizes.
Cheryl believes that mistakes are inevitable but manageable. “Everything is fixable one way or another, as long as you own up to it” she advises.
A Splash of Color
Outside of her professional life, Cheryl expresses herself through vibrant hair colors. “I’ve been dyeing my hair multiple colors for about 10 to 12 years,” she says with a smile. Inspired by YouTube and a desire for change, she started experimenting with bold colors like blue and burgundy.
Her colorful hair has become a signature part of her identity at work. “I tested the waters with a little bit of green at the tips, and my bosses didn’t complain,” she laughs. “So I just turned it blue and kept the blue for a long time.”
Favorite Taco Bell Treats
Being part of the Taco Bell family has its perks, especially when it comes to delicious menu items. Cheryl fondly remembers her favorite discontinued item, the Fiesta Taco Salad. “They don’t have it anymore, but it was my favorite,” she says. Nowadays, she enjoys the Mexican Pizza. “I’m real glad they brought that back,” she adds.
Cheryl’s story is a testament to how embracing opportunities and nurturing relationships can lead to a fulfilling career. From seeking a job for her family’s well-being to becoming an integral part of the MRCO Taco Bell team, she has found her place!