Krista K. Smith

About Krista K. Smith

Servant-hearted hospitality leader passionate about driving restaurant success through strategic hiring, onboarding, and development of team members, directly impacting culture, operational performance, and guest experiences. Proven ability to cultivate a culture of care, drive employee growth, create a supportive work environment that improves team member engagement, and meet high-volume, fast-paced goals.

Experience

1. Senior Director of People

   Chick-fil-A Restaurants

   Feb 2025 — Present · Waco, TX, US

   Oversees all Human Resources duties for employees to include payroll, pay adjustments, direct deposit adjustments, employee terminations and employee performance management conversations• Serves on and collaborates with the Executive Leadership Team to help maximize investment in talent and leadership development of all employees• Responsible for interviewing and hiring all employees with a focus on selecting ideal team players who prioritize trust, promote influence, and pursue excellence• Oversees onboarding and orientation for each leader and team members transition into the business• Champions Chick-fil-A’s servant leadership model by empowering our team to “win hearts every day”, “be the world’s most caring company” and “have a positive influence on all who come in contact with Chick-fil-A.”• Facilitates the Chick-fil-A Leader Academy at La Vega High School and Connally High School• Coordinates the Chick-fil-A Remarkable Futures Scholarship program by promoting opportunities to team members, guiding them through the application process and celebrating recipients, resulting in $49,500 in educational funding for 30 deserving Team Members and Leaders in 2026• Plans and executes all special events such as Sunshine Days, Summer of Cows, Back to School Supplies, Welcome Back Event, and the Annual Chick-fil-A Baylor and Bellmead Celebration and Award Ceremony• Manages all social media development and content, including oversight of the Marketing Committee • Serves in business operations an average of 15-20 hours per week in various executionary roles to help support relational development

Education

• St. Thomas University

  Master's in Sports Administration, Sports Studies with emphasis in student-athlete advising and development

  2018 — 2019

• University of Arkansas

  Bachelor of Science - BS, May 2018 Graduate with Honors, Recreation & Sport Management with a Minor in Journalism

  2014 — 2018