goBeyondProfit, a first-of-its-kind business leader initiative that inspires business generosity, today announced Savannah-based Parker’s Kitchen and its Founder and Executive Chairman, Greg Parker, as the recipient of the goBeyondProfit Champion Award.

Greg Parker’s journey, from a one-man operation in 1976 to leading a company that processes over a million weekly transactions, is a testament to his hands-on leadership and unwavering commitment to generosity. His experience has instilled a deep understanding of the importance of genuine care, a principle that permeates every aspect of Parker’s Kitchen from their brand-filter to employee benefits, customer care and office design.

“Giving back is part of our company’s DNA,” says Parker. “It’s shocking how many people say they want to work at Parker’s Kitchen because we give back to the community. We’re just doing the right thing, but our customers are rewarding us and people want to work with us. Every CEO needs to know that by doing the right thing a world of generosity will come back to you.”  

Parker has always insisted on leading from the front, ensuring the safety and well-being of employees. This commitment fostered a culture of loyalty and resilience, allowing Parker’s Kitchen to not only navigate crisis but also gain market share.

Beyond employee care, Parker’s Kitchen is deeply invested in community development. The company’s philanthropic efforts include significant contributions to education, healthcare, veterans, and hunger relief, totaling over $30 million in recent years. Notable initiatives include 

The Parker College of Business at Georgia Southern University, creating a pipeline of talent for the entire region, as well as the Parker’s Emergency & Trauma center in Savannah. 

“Our success is built on the shoulders of others,” according to Greg Parker. “I am truly humbled and grateful for the people I’ve worked with, and I believe that every CEO needs to know that generosity returns in countless ways.”

In addition to talking about his days as a frontline CEO, Parker shared with goBeyondProfit lessons in leadership as well as frank insights into his transition from CEO to Executive Chairman. See the full interview here: www.gobeyondprofit.org/champion

“Greg Parker embodies the spirit of a leader who understands that true success is built on a genuine care for people.” said goBeyondProfit president, Megan McCamey. “Parker’s Kitchen’s commitment to employees and community, especially during challenging times, offers a shining example of the incredible positive impact of business in people’s lives, when a company operates with generosity as a guiding principle.” 

Past goBeyondProfit Champion award winners include Gas South, Creature Comforts Brewing, H.J. Russell & Company, Aflac, W&A Engineering, Cox Enterprises, Herschend Enterprises, Chick-fil-A, Signature FD, Vector Global Logistics, Goodr, Sunnyland Farms, Colony Bank, and fab’rik.

About goBeyondProfit

goBeyondProfit is a statewide alliance of more 2,200+ business leaders who pledge to operate generously and improve lives. To submit a nomination for future goBeyondProfit Champions, visit the goBeyondProfit website.