Francesca Marlow - HR Advisor

Mar. 04, 2026
5 - min

Transforming Inclusion: Francesca Marlow’s Vision for a Better Future

At Sodexo, we believe that doing good business means creating a positive impact on people’s lives. That belief is at the heart of Francesca “Fran” Marlow’s work.

Fran, an HR Officer in our team, was recognised as the winner of the AREEA Award for the Future Leader category last year. This award celebrates her incredible contribution to workplace inclusion and her vision for a more equitable Energy and Resources sector.

Opening Doors with SoBelong

Despite being early in her career, Fran has already made a significant difference. She is the mastermind behind the SoBelong program, an initiative designed to break down barriers to employment and open doors to Fly-In-Fly-Out (FIFO) opportunities.

Fran saw that traditional recruitment processes often overlooked capable people. Long-term unemployment, a lack of specific experience, or simply not fitting the "standard" mould were preventing talented individuals from finding stable work.

SoBelong changes that. It provides a structured, supportive pathway for people who have faced systemic disadvantages, including Indigenous Australians, women, carers, and the long-term unemployed.

A Human-Centred Approach

What makes Fran’s approach so special is her focus on the person, not just the resume. She interacts directly with candidates, looking for potential and transferable skills rather than just ticking boxes.

Fran designed the program to be practical and empowering. She created materials that give candidates a real understanding of life on site, ensuring they feel respected and ready for the challenges of FIFO work. Her facilitation style creates a safe space where candidates can build confidence and see a future for themselves at Sodexo.

This human connection is key to the program’s success. It has not only eased recruitment pressures but has also fostered a workforce where everyone feels a true sense of belonging.

Real Impact, Real Results

Under Fran’s leadership, the results speak for themselves. The program has already impacted 136 people across just a few intakes. The interview-to-hire conversion rate is strong, and retention rates for these new employees are significantly higher than the business average.

But the real measure of success is in the stories of the people Fran has helped. Single parents are gaining financial stability. Culturally diverse women are thriving in mining environments. Individuals who once felt excluded are now making meaningful contributions to our industry.

Leading with Purpose

Fran’s work doesn’t stop at recruitment. She is constantly improving the program based on feedback, ensuring that every participant has the best possible experience. She is also involved in broader strategy projects, advocating for sustainable and inclusive housing models.

Fran’s leadership proves that workforce inclusivity is achievable when it is led with purpose and compassion. By aligning people with opportunity, she is helping to shape a more equitable future for our industry.

We are incredibly proud of Fran and the lasting impact she is creating for our people and our communities.