Myra Doria’s remarkable journey to becoming the National Field President of McDonald’s USA is a testament to the power of grit, passion, and perseverance. What began in the mid-1980s as a management trainee in a small McDonald’s branch in Dau, Mabalacat, Pampanga, has evolved into a career that now sees her overseeing 14,000 restaurants in the U.S. and contributing to over $56 billion in annual sales.

Reflecting on her journey during her recent visit to the Philippines for McDonald’s Philippines’ operations leadership summit, Doria said, “Standing up here today reminds me of why I got into this business in the first place, and all the incredible people I’ve met along the way. I’ve always wanted to come back to the place where I started. It also reminds me of how far I’ve come and how grateful I am to those who have made my career possible.”

Humble Beginnings
Born in Minalin, Pampanga, Doria was the eldest of six children. From a young age, she understood the importance of being a role model for her siblings. Her early experiences working at the public market not only sharpened her business acumen but also sparked a lifelong passion for shoes—a symbol of her journey and career.

Doria recalls the day she first walked into McDonald’s. “I had just graduated from college when my mom treated me to a meal at McDonald’s. Without me knowing it, she asked for a job application, and surprisingly, I was interviewed on the spot,” she shared. Eleven interviews later, she began her management training in 1985 at what was known as “Store 005.”

From the Philippines to the U.S.
Doria’s professional growth was marked by hard work and determination. From a management trainee, she quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a restaurant manager and later a business consultant. Her career took a significant turn when she moved to the United States with her husband, who was stationed in Guam with the U.S. Navy.

“The move to the U.S. was the greatest change I’d ever experienced,” Doria said. “The culture was completely new, and at first, I wasn’t surrounded by many people who looked or sounded like me. But over time, I learned to assert myself, create my own seat at the table, and bring my own voice—accent and all.”

In the U.S., Doria continued to climb the corporate ladder, taking on roles such as field vice president and zone president. In 2023, she was appointed as the National Field President of McDonald’s USA, where she now plays a pivotal role in overseeing the company’s U.S. operations.

A Culture of Empowerment
At McDonald’s, Doria was not only supported but also empowered—something she now strives to pass on. McDonald’s Philippines, for example, has a workforce where women make up over 51% of key segments, from crew members to store managers and leaders. Doria, too, has made it her mission to empower others, especially women, through mentorship and leadership.

Reflecting on her journey, she credited much of her success to the unwavering support of people like McDonald’s Philippines Chairman and Founder, Dr. George T. Yang, who gave her her first job as a management trainee. “If not for him, who knows where I’d be today?” she said.

Doria’s leadership style has influenced countless people. Many of the individuals she mentored have gone on to take leadership positions, such as becoming Chief Restaurant Officers in McDonald’s Australia and the UK, proving that women can excel and lead at the highest levels.

A Multifaceted Life
Beyond her role at McDonald’s, Doria is also a wife, mother, and now a grandmother. “I can’t thank my family enough for their unconditional love and support,” she shared, especially highlighting the joy of being a first-time grandmother to her one-year-old granddaughter, Cora.

Doria believes that success is not just about career achievements but also staying grounded and remembering where you come from. “Lead with empathy and don’t let your title or responsibilities get in the way,” she advised.

IMPower

Doria’s advice to women aspiring to leadership roles is simple: “Don’t be afraid to take risks. The higher the risk, the greater the reward. Risk is an essential part of leadership.” She emphasized that making an impact on others’ lives is one of the most fulfilling parts of her career.

As the world celebrates International Women’s Month, McDonald’s highlights women like Doria, who are not only empowered but also empower others in return. Doria’s story proves that with the right mindset, drive, and support, anyone can rise to great heights—just like she did.

“At McDonald’s, women are empowered to be their best selves and bring out the best in others. I am a #MPowered woman, and so can you,” Doria shared, encouraging other women to take their seat at the table.