Dorian A. Rhodes

About Dorian

Dorian joined Barton in April as our Director of Human Resources. He attended Pennsylvania Western University earning a Bachelor of Science in Global Integrated Business and The Pennsylvania State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication.

“An ESOP impacts me in HR by transforming how employees connect with the company. It shifts the dynamic from “just a job” to “shared ownership,” which is a game-changer for engagement, retention, and overall workplace culture. When employees feel like true stakeholders, they’re more invested in their work and the company’s success—which makes my job in HR a lot more rewarding. It also creates opportunities to focus on education and communication. Helping employees understand the value of their ESOP and how it ties to their personal growth and financial future adds another layer of meaning to my role. And let’s be honest, it’s a win-win—motivated employees with ownership pride are easier to recruit, develop, and retain. Plus, managing an ESOP means HR plays a bigger role in fostering organizational transparency and collaboration. It’s not just about benefits and policies anymore—it’s about creating a culture of empowerment, accountability, and shared success. And that’s the kind of impact that makes this job so fulfilling!” stated Dorian when asked how the ESOP impacts him the most.

What’s your hometown?

Brooklyn, New York.

What was the first job you got a physical paycheck?

Chuck E. Cheese.

What does being part of an ESOP mean to you?

Being part of an ESOP means I’m not just punching the clock—I’m actually building my future while doing it. It’s like being on a team where everyone gets a trophy and a piece of the championship pie. Every little win at work feels sweeter because I know it’s not just about making the company money; it’s about growing something I have a stake in. It also means I think twice before leaving the lights on or stealing the last donut at meetings—hey, that’s my company money I’m wasting! The best part? Knowing we’re all in this together. If the company does well, we all win. If not, well…guess we’ve got some work to do! ESOP gives me skin in the game and makes me feel like I’m part of something bigger than just a 9-to-5. Plus, it’s nice to imagine that my future self might be toasting this decision from a beach somewhere.

What do you like most about the ESOP?

What I love most about an ESOP is the feeling that I’m not just working for a company—I’m working with it. Every effort I put in isn’t just helping the business thrive; it’s also setting me up for a brighter future. It’s like getting a front-row seat to your own success story. I also love how it brings everyone together. Knowing we all have a stake in the outcome makes teamwork more meaningful—whether it’s brainstorming in meetings or deciding who’s buying the next round of coffee pods (spoiler: we all win when the budget wins). Most importantly, an ESOP turns my job into an investment in myself. It’s exciting to think that the work I do today could help me relax on a beach later—talk about motivation!

What’s your favorite sport (professional, college, or other)?

Soccer, Manchester United! GGMU.

I’m seldom without?

Music (digital).

What’s on your “stranded on a desert island” playlist? 

Full Albums – Live at Red Rocks 8.15.95, Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), Uncaged, The Low-end Theory, Paid in Full, and Live Trax 6 (I can add so much more).

What’s your hidden talent?

I play the ukulele.

What’s the one movie you can watch over and over again?

Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.

What’s on your bucket list?

Visiting all the seven wonders of the world.

What’s your favorite holiday and why?

Thanksgiving – it is the perfect blend of gratitude, family, and comfort foods.

Best book you’ve ever read?

Soccernomics.

What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve ever been given?

Focus on adding value wherever you go. When you solve problems, build relationships, and consistently deliver results, opportunities will find you.

Join Our Barton Associates Team!