CEO Spotlight: Maddie Dierolf, Saint Joseph’s University

Maddie Dierolf is no stranger to Saxbys. For nearly two years, she’s been a team lead at our Peddler’s Village cafe — training staff, managing financials and engaging with the community.

Now, the 22-year-old food marketing cooperative major is taking the reigns of our newly opened cafe at St. Joseph’s University. Through our Experiential Learning Program, Maddie will serve as Student Cafe Executive Officer, managing all aspects of the cafe — from team members to financials — while earning college credit and competitive pay.

Let’s learn a bit more about her:

How does it feel to be the inaugural SCEO of the St. Joe’s Saxbys cafe?

So exciting! Since I worked for Saxbys for so long, I knew about the ELP program for quite awhile. I would always joke and say: “Come on Saxbys why aren’t you at my school yet?” Once the opportunity came about I was so excited.

What type of work environment would you like to create at the cafe?

I want team members to feel excited and happy to come to work. I don’t want a stressful environment. If team members are stressed out it’ll show to our guests — and guests won’t want to be there. I’m hoping to create a peaceful, happy, comforting environment.

Managing team members your own age is a difficult challenge. Are you up for it?

It is a challenge. How do I balance the line between being a CEO and friend? I think that finding that balance and learning that skill will be rewarding. I’m excited about it. I’m not really nervous. I want to be a friend and lead them in professional environment. I want to be someone my team looks up to, who inspires them, and helps them through their college careers.

What is the biggest challenge you’ll be facing as SCEO?

I know I have difficulty with time management. I’m the type of person who makes to-do lists everyday but can get stressed out if I don’t get it all finished. In this role, I’ve got to prioritize my time to get everything done.

What do you hope to achieve as SCEO?

The biggest thing is making an impact for not only Saxbys but for St. Joe’s as well. It’s such an amazing school because of the food marketing program. I don’t want the university to see saxbys just as a cafe on campus. I want them to see this program as something that’s long lasting and valuable.

How do you plan to interact with the St. Joe’s community?

I’ve been thinking of different fundraisers we can be a part of with student organizations. I also want to host lots of club meetings in the cafe. We’ll also provide coffee and snacks to events outside the cafe. We’re really excited to get the word out.

What are your hobbies outside of work?

I love to cook. My favorite show is Masterchef. I love going on Pinterest finding different recipes. I’m a homebody. I like hanging out with friends and family, watching football on Sundays or having a nice meal together.

What are your plans for after college?

No idea. I’m taking advantage of the co-op opportunities, learning a lot, and not making any hasty decisions.