Workforce Challenge 

In early 2020, during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Wild Leaf Beverages was having difficulty recruiting candidates to fill various positions in their warehouse. The warehouse manager Mario Williams, reached out to the Mayor’s Office of Employment Development in June 2020 to inquire about employment assistance programs for businesses in Baltimore City. They explained their need to fill 35 full-time warehouse and porter positions. They were immediately connected with MOED staff who would assess their needs and start them on a workforce plan.

Workforce Solutions 

Marvin McKenstry and Shari Mitchell, MOED’s Business Services Representatives, began searching the database for eligible     candidates, reviewing resumes they had on file as well as candidate resumes referred by Wild Leaf. MOED’s staff conducted virtual interviews with candidates and scheduled potential employees for a three-day employment trial period – this doesn’t confirm employment but is an extension of the interview process to determine if the potential employee will be a good fit. Upon successful completion, candidates are offered a permanent position.

 As the referrals and retention rate increased, Wild Leaf noticed the value of partnering with MOED and requested our assistance with conducting staff workshops. Our business services team provided conflict resolution training for new staff and supervisors. “The city was very forthcoming in not only assisting us in our search, but also pre-vetting the candidates, and     offering us a trial period by way of support,” says Steve Fader, Wild Leaf CEO. “The efforts put forth by MOED have assisted us in our attempts to build a positive culture within our facility, one of growth and support.”

 Outcomes & Benefits

As of February 2021, MOED surpassed 100 successful employee referrals at Wild Leaf and continues to work with them and assist with any turnovers they may have. Several MOED referred employees have proven to be committed team members and as a result have been offered advanced positions in the company with a pay increase.  

Steve Fader commends, “As a National company, I wish every city in America had a team like MOED does in Baltimore. They have been a blessing to our company and we hope to continue our relationship with the City for years to come. “