We’re in Chicago: Malcolm Fox

What is your current role? How would you describe the work that you do?

I currently work at the Headquarters of McDonald’s Corporation as a Strategic Sourcing Supervisor on our Global Supply Chain Team in Chicago, IL. In this role, I am the Category Manager for Lighting, Ceiling Tile, Wall Tile, Floor Tile, and Energy Management Systems for our restaurants (on a global scale).

I am also the Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Gratitude Chicago, which is a clothing brand that uses our platform and influence to emphasize the importance of showing gratitude in your everyday life.

What was your Chicago Scholars experience like?

Chicago Scholars was the best thing that ever happened to me as an early career professional. In addition to the financial support that helped me offset my costs to attend and graduate from Howard University , Chicago Scholars also provided me with a plethora of resources, connections, and opportunities. This exposure helped me achieve much success to date.

How did Chicago Scholars support you to be the person you are today?

Chicago Scholars supported me in a countless number of ways. To begin, I met my current mentor at a Chicago Scholars’ Networking and Resume Workshop. That same mentor is the person who helped me secure my first job at McDonald’s Corporation and has continued to support me in my matriculation through the company with his 30 years of experience, reputable image, and many accolades.

I cannot thank Amy Galabois enough for how big of a support system she was during my time in college. I spent countless hours crying to her on the phone about my struggles. I could always count on her to help me create a game plan that helped me navigate how to attack my stress points in the most strategic way possible.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention how impactful Jeff Beckham has been in my life after college. He’s granted many connections, given a lot of applicable advice, and ultimately has served as a GREAT mentor / role model for me.

What advice would you have given yourself just after being accepted into the program? What advice do you have for current Scholars?

I have two pieces of advice that I think are applicable to both groups. First, eliminate the timid approach or hesitations you may have in being a new initiate in this program. Take advantage of the opportunities that are provided to you because of Chicago Scholars as they will prove to be beneficial to you, your network, career, and ultimately your life. Attend the different workshops that are hosted, connect consistently with your mentors, and take PRIDE in being a part of a great Chicago Scholar network.  My second piece of advice would be to pay it forward. Don’t forget the investment that Chicago Scholars made in you and your career. Make sure you pay it forward and use your learnings, blessings, etc., to help impact the next generation of Chicago Scholars.

What does being from Chicago mean to you now?

Being from Chicago means being resilient to me. This is a great city, but growing up on the South Side as an African American male, we’re often ridden of the same opportunities that are offered to our peers, and can easily be distracted or discouraged by our environment. This is why I take so much pride in paying it forward and using my blessings, learnings, and experiences to help impact the younger generations.

What do you wish people knew about Chicago Scholars, as well as the city of Chicago?

I want people to know the immense impact that Chicago Scholars have on the youth in Chicago. Being a part of Chicago Scholars, as well as other similar programs, I can attest to how beneficial Chicago Scholars is and the genuine care and time that is taken by the team at Chicago Scholars to ensure students are benefitting from the program in a multitude of ways.

I want people to know that great people exist in Chicago. The media often paints the city in a negative light, but once you come here, you’ll easily notice how beautiful the city is and how amazing Chicagoans are.