Atlanta’s First Female Fast-Food President Inspires Community Engagement and Leadership

Atlanta’s Journey Through Leadership: A Personal Story

Picture this: it’s the mid-90s in Atlanta, and the business landscape looks quite different from today. In fact, back then, it was nearly unheard of for women to occupy top executive roles in large companies. But here we have the inspiring story of Hala Moddelmog, who, in 1995, became the first woman president of a major fast-food chain in the country – Atlanta’s very own Church’s Chicken.

A Call That Changed a Career

It all started with a simple phone call. “The moment I got the title as president, I received a call from Ann Cramer and Jane Smith,” Moddelmog shared during a recent chat. Feeling a blend of excitement and responsibility, she reflected, “They thought I should be involved in the community.” This wasn’t just a fleeting thought but a directive that significantly shaped Moddelmog’s career trajectory.

A New Era for Women in Business

In those days, women in leadership roles were scarce, especially in Atlanta. Moddelmog remembered her celebratory mood quickly shifting to a desire to make a mark in the community. Cramer, who held a leadership role at IBM, was instrumental in this transformation. “Yes, it was the title, and yes, it was an Atlanta company, and yes, she was a woman,” Cramer emphasized, reflecting on the importance of Moddelmog’s appointment. “It was time to elevate and connect who you are and what you’re doing with expectations.”

Juggling Family and Work

Life as a new president was no cakewalk. Moddelmog had two young children at home—a fourth grader and a second grader. Despite her daunting schedule, she had a clear focus. With a background in marketing and a strong connection with franchisees, she understood the numbers behind the business, helping her earn the position. “It was a special time,” she recalled. But thanks to Cramer and Smith’s encouragement, she truly began to grasp the significance of civic engagement in Atlanta.

The Civic Responsibility

“They insisted I join Leadership Atlanta in 1997, and believe me, you couldn’t hide from Ann!” Moddelmog chuckled, highlighting both the pressure and pleasure of that pivotal decision. Back then, the concept of women in civic roles was mainly limited to volunteering, while men took the lead in business and development. But with a woman at the helm now, it was time for change.

Moddelmog didn’t just embrace her new responsibilities; she actively sought ways to give back. Her involvement with the Metro Atlanta Chamber and the Alliance Theatre opened new doors and broadened her impact.

The Ripple Effect of Community Engagement

Fast forward several years, and we see Moddelmog moving from being a chain president to heading award-winning organizations like Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the Woodruff Arts Center. Reflecting back, she noted the crucial role that encouragement from Cramer and Smith played in propelling her toward these significant leadership positions. “That meeting changed everything for me,” she said. “There is no way I would have been considered for those roles if not for their insistence on getting involved.”

The Atlanta Way

This spirit of community involvement isn’t just a story of one person’s journey; it’s part of a broader movement known as the Atlanta Way. For decades, new executives were welcomed to the city with the understanding that their contributions to the community were just as vital as their business success. Today, the Atlanta Way 2.0 initiative aims to extend that warm welcome to all newcomers, encouraging engagement from a range of diverse fields.

Building a Close-Knit Community

As Moddelmog aptly put it, “Atlanta will let you in if you’re willing to do the work.” This idea goes beyond just executives and extends to artists, community leaders, and everyone keen on making a difference. It’s a philosophy that invites all to be part of something bigger and help foster connections among residents.

In Conclusion

Hala Moddelmog’s story serves as a glowing example of how determination and community engagement can pave the path for personal and professional growth. The message continues to resonate—whether one is stepping into a leadership role or simply getting involved in local initiatives, a great deal can come from working together. It’s this thoughtful engagement that promises to enrich not only Atlanta but also the lives of those who call it home.