Chipotle unveiled plans to enhance employee benefits when it comes to parental leave and paid time off.
The Mexican fast food chain announced Thursday that it would increase the amount of time new parents can take away from work, whether for paternity leave, maternity leave or adoption.
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Eligible employees can now take 12 weeks off from work when they’re welcoming a new addition to their family. Additionally, Chipotle is rolling out a test of unlimited PTO for senior staff members, which include executive team directors, team directors and restaurant support center directors.
The changes are part of the company’s celebration of National Employee Appreciation Day on March 6.
“Over the past year, we've positioned ourselves as a leader in curating an environment that maximizes the potential of our outstanding workforce,” said chief people officer Marissa Andrada in a press release. “We want to ensure our employees are able to share important moments with their family and have the necessary time away from work to recharge after a monumental life event.”
The boosted parental leave also means Chipotle will cover costs for nursing mothers to utilize breastmilk shipping services while they travel for work. Plus, the company’s employee resource group, Humans Uniting to Support the Ladies’ Experience (HUSTLE), will provide special “returnity” guides for corporate employees. These guides will help such employees transition back into work, offering tips on things such as how to voice “returnity” needs and internal and external resources for working parents.
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As for the unlimited PTO test, it recognizes leaders and provides flexibility for them to handle priorities at work and at home without the concern about accruing vacation or sick time. After feedback has been evaluated following the test, Chipotle plans to decide whether or not unlimited PTO will be extended to other employees.
The move from Chipotle comes two months after fellow Mexican fast food spot Taco Bell announced it would test giving a $100,000 annual salary to managers of select locations. It also began granting paid sick leave to employees nationwide at the top of the year.
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