Elkhart McDonald’s owner-operator Harry Smith stands with McDonald’s manager Veronica Ruiz after Ruiz was recognized with the prestigious Ray Kroc Award. (Photo provided)

McDonald’s of Northern Indiana announced that Veronica Ruiz, manager of the restaurant at 2808 N Cassopolis Street in Elkhart, was recognized with the prestigious Ray Kroc Award, a performance-based award given to only the top one percent of McDonald’s managers in the country.

The awards are given to managers who excel in selected areas of performance in three main categories: excellence of restaurant operation, reinforcing McDonald’s commitment to people, and building the business.  Local Owner/Operators can nominate their managers based on the selection criteria.  Nominations are then reviewed by a committee of McDonald’s regional and divisional executives.

Elkhart McDonald’s owner-operator Harry Smith said the award is due recognition for Ruiz’s work. “This is Veronica’s second time winning the award, which shows her strong work ethic and commitment to the brand,” Smith said.  “She’s committed to not only improving the bottom line in terms of sales, but also to representing the McDonald’s brand in an impactful way in the community. She has a passion for doing what’s best for the business, what’s best for her employees, and what’s best for her customers every day.” Ruiz received her first award while managing the  SR 120 McDonald’s location.

The Ray Kroc Award winners receive a cash award, trophy, ring and lapel pin. In addition, winners are invited to a three-day awards event and banquet in their honor, hosted by Jan Fields, President, McDonald’s USA in Chicago, IL. McDonald’s Corporation will pay the expenses for each winner and one guest.

Now in its thirteenth year, the Ray Kroc Award program was established to pay tribute to the best and brightest managers in the McDonald’s system.  It is named for McDonald’s founder, to honor the people who are helping build the company Kroc began.