Lactalis USA, a leading dairy company known for its products like Kraft Natural Cheese and Yoplait, has garnered recognition as a top employer for its supportive workplace culture and opportunities for career advancement. The company, which is part of the world-renowned Lactalis Group based in France, emphasizes values such as ambition, engagement, and simplicity, fostering an environment where employees feel valued and empowered.
According to the Chicago Tribune’s list of Top Workplaces, Lactalis USA ranks No. 8 among midsize employers, as measured by the consultancy Energage. In an interview, Peter Cotter, CEO of Lactalis Heritage Dairy, described the company’s culture as open and caring. He stated, “Employees can grow their careers and can also engage in a wonderful community,” highlighting the company’s commitment to inclusivity and recognition of diverse backgrounds.
Since opening its Chicago office in 2021, Lactalis USA has expanded significantly, growing from just two employees to a workforce of 240. Cotter noted that the company provides extensive training and coaching to support employees in achieving their career goals. “As this company has changed and grown, we continue to provide more and more opportunities for folks,” he said, emphasizing the importance of internal promotions as part of the organization’s growth strategy.
Lactalis USA’s commitment to employee satisfaction is reflected in its voluntary turnover rate of 8.3%, significantly lower than the average rate of 19.2% for similar-sized companies. Jessica Dugum, senior manager of talent development, explained that ambition is matched with care, creating a conducive environment for growth.
Employees like Cody Tossava, who started as a supply planner and now serves as senior planner for supply chain projects, appreciate the company’s approach to career development. “They really allow you to take on as much as you can handle,” he remarked, underscoring the organization’s focus on retaining talent through meaningful internal growth.
The collaborative culture at Lactalis USA encourages teamwork and communication across departments. Cotter elaborated on this by stating that simplicity, a core value, represents accessibility within the organization. He regularly meets with small groups of employees to discuss their feelings and ideas about the business, demonstrating leadership’s commitment to transparency.
Employees benefit from a hybrid work schedule, allowing for flexibility between remote and in-office work. To enhance workplace morale, Lactalis hosts various fun events, such as pancake Thursdays and costume contests. Dugum noted that these activities contribute to a vibrant workplace culture, stating, “It’s a really great environment to walk into every day.”
In addition to fostering a positive workplace, Lactalis USA is dedicated to community engagement. The company actively participates in charitable initiatives, including a clean-up day along the Chicago River and annual volunteering at the Greater Chicago Food Depository, where it donated 10,344 meals last year.
The sense of camaraderie at Lactalis is palpable. Employees feel a familial connection within the organization, as Tossava expressed: “It feels like a family. I have great relationships with not only my co-workers but my bosses and their bosses.” This supportive atmosphere not only nurtures personal growth but also aligns with the broader mission of the company to care for its consumers and the community.
Through its commitment to employee development, inclusivity, and community engagement, Lactalis USA exemplifies a workplace that prioritizes both individual and organizational growth, solidifying its reputation as a top employer within the dairy industry.
