When Zarrina May took her first job at Taco Bell in July 2007, she was a 17-year-old high school senior looking for an opportunity. Little did she know that this decision would mark the beginning of a fulfilling career spanning over a decade with MRCO.
From Crew Member to Leadership
Starting on the front line and drive-thru customer service, Zarrina quickly showcased her talent for connecting with customers. “I was so good; I knew customers’ names, and they knew mine,” she recalls. Her ambition didn’t stop there. Determined to grow, she set her sights on becoming a Shift Manager.
Initially, her General Manager was skeptical due to her youthful energy. “He didn’t believe in me because I was playing around—I was a teenager,” Zarrina admits. But she was committed to proving herself. Through hard work and dedication, she mastered the line operations and began training new employees. About a year later, she earned the promotion to Shift Manager.
While working, Zarrina also attended Middle Tennessee State University. Balancing school and work was challenging, but her determination never wavered. She aspired to become an Assistant Manager, and turned those asperations into reality as she continued to climb the ranks.
Overcoming Personal Challenges with Company Support
At 21, life threw Zarrina an unexpected curveball. As she was about to graduate from college, she experienced the heartbreak of a stillborn child. The support she received from MRCO during this difficult time was overwhelming. “They were very supportive. Everybody came to the funeral—even the customers,” she shares. “You don’t get this where everybody else works. I thought, I gotta stay.”
“MRCO feels like family. They’re right beside you.” — Zarrina May, Human Resources Generalist
This profound experience solidified her commitment to the company. Upon returning, she was tasked with managing one of the most challenging stores. Through perseverance, she turned it around and was promoted to General Manager at just 23. Her store became one of the top three performers in the company.
Embracing Diversity and Change in Human Resources
In 2015, Zarrina transitioned to the corporate office as a Human Resources Generalist. She now manages employee insurance, benefits, and HR administration and values the diverse team she works with. “You’re working with all different types of people—different ages. Having an open mind is the key,” she advises.
“If you stick with it and you put your mind to it, you can do whatever you want to do.” — Zarrina May, Human Resources Generalist
Balancing her career and personal life, Zarrina is a proud mother of three girls with another on the way and has been happily married for 13 years. She continues to embrace new challenges, taking each day as it comes. Zarrina’s story is a testament to the opportunities and supportive culture here at MRCO.