Melissa Sobnosky
Melissa Sobnosky is an accomplished human resources professional specializing in employee experience within the hospitality industry. She currently serves as Employee Experience Supervisor at LSG Sky Chefs in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where she leads initiatives that foster an inclusive, engaging, and supportive workplace. Melissa’s expertise spans onboarding, employee engagement, recognition programs, and professional development, ensuring every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute meaningfully to organizational success. With a Master of Business Administration and a strong background in HR operations, Melissa brings a unique combination of strategic insight and hands-on leadership. Her experience includes roles in human resources coordination, recruiting, and team leadership across hospitality and corporate environments, where she has optimized processes, trained personnel, and enhanced employee satisfaction. Melissa is recognized for her ability to translate employee feedback into actionable improvements that strengthen connection and performance across all levels of an organization. Beyond her professional pursuits, Melissa demonstrates a longstanding commitment to volunteerism and community service. She has been actively involved with Zeta Tau Alpha’s Pink Ribbon Cheer Classic, raising awareness and funds for breast cancer education and awareness, and has served in leadership roles within her sorority alumnae and collegiate chapters. Her dedication to mentoring, professional development, and community engagement underscores her passion for cultivating thriving workplaces and fostering meaningful connections both inside and outside the workplace.
• Management Skills Intensive (MSI)
• First Aid, CPR and AED
• Youngstown State University - BS
• Duquesne University - MSSB
• Duquesne University - MBA
• Panhellenic Sorority Woman of the Year
• Zeta Lady Award
• Who's Who Among American Universities and Colleges
• Zeta Tau Alpha Alumnae Certificate of Merit
• Zeta Tau Alpha Youngstown Alumnae Chapter
• Zeta Tau Alpha, Zeta Gamma
• Duquesne University - Palumbo Donahue School of Business
• Zeta Tau Alpha Steel City Alumnae
• Zeta Tau Alpha's Pink Ribbon Cheer Classic
• Pittsburgh Marathon Run for a Reason
• Melissa's Love Totes
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of passion, dedication, and a commitment to helping others thrive. My career began with an exercise science background before I transitioned into an MBA program, which ultimately led me to my current role at LSG Sky Chefs, focusing on employee experience and retention. Along the way, I have leveraged my experience in the service industry as a bartender and server to develop strong interpersonal skills, while my involvement in sorority leadership and fundraising initiatives, including the Pink Ribbon Cheer Classic that raised over a million dollars for breast cancer awareness, reinforced the value of teamwork, organization, and community impact. I am particularly driven to support employees who may face additional challenges, such as non-native English speakers or those less familiar with technology, by providing guidance and resources beyond my required responsibilities. In my role, I strive every day to create an inclusive, engaging, and supportive environment where every employee feels seen, valued, and empowered. I lead initiatives that foster connection and belonging, guide new hires through onboarding, oversee recognition programs like “Cheers to Peers” and the RSO Rewards Program, and facilitate focus groups and manager meetings to turn feedback into actionable improvements. Beyond the workplace, I am deeply committed to volunteerism and community engagement, including fundraising for causes like breast cancer, foster children and animal welfare. Whether through professional or volunteer efforts, I am dedicated to motivating teams, developing talent, and building meaningful experiences that encourage growth, collaboration, and excellence.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from two incredible mentors who shaped my growth: Kim James, the founder of the Pink Ribbon Cheer Classic, and Cheryl Seeley, my former manager and HR director. Kim taught me the importance of leading with passion and purpose, showing me how meaningful work and community involvement can create lasting impact. Cheryl emphasized the value of empathy, communication, and truly listening to others, lessons that have been instrumental in guiding my approach to human resources and employee experience. Their guidance reinforced the idea that success isn’t just about personal achievement it’s about lifting others up, fostering connection, and creating environments where people feel empowered to do their best work.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering HR to pursue their professional goals with dedication and perseverance, trusting their instincts along the way. It’s important to work hard and stay committed, but also to recognize when a position or opportunity isn’t the right fit and have the confidence to take a step back if needed. Balancing ambition with self-awareness will serve you well throughout your career.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me both professionally and personally are dedication, compassion, and balance. In my work, I strive to make a meaningful impact and contribute positively to my community, as reflected in my volunteer roles for Zeta Tau Alpha's Pink Ribbon Cheer Classic. In my personal life, I deeply value family, friendships, and maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle whether taking a [solidcore] class, training for my next half-marathon (up next: Disney World), coaching tumbling classes, or spending time with my two labradoodles, black lab, and cherished 6-year-old 'bonus' son. I also nurture my mind and spirit through reading and participating in two book clubs, always seeking growth, connection, and fulfillment in everything I do.