Beyond the Finish Line: Tyrese Manigault’s Drive for Employee Engagement at NASCAR

For Tyrese Manigault, Manager of Employee Engagement at NASCAR, the roar of the engines isn’t just about the race; it’s about the people. His journey, from youthful dreams of working in the sport to now shaping its internal culture, is a powerful blend of passion, purpose, and a deep-seated desire to connect.

“Making an impact is what wakes me up in the morning,” Manigault shares. This drive, rooted in a desire to help others see their potential, fuels his work both inside and outside of NASCAR. He credits his mother with instilling this value from a young age, shaping his character and his commitment to service.

His experience as a chaplain further exemplifies this dedication. “It’s a rewarding and humbling experience to be a source of light and compassion,” he reflects. This same empathy informs his approach to employee engagement, where he strives to create a supportive and inclusive environment.

“Employee engagement is about culture,” Manigault explains. “It’s about change. It’s about seeing things from a different perspective.” He acknowledges the inherent challenges in navigating change and diverse viewpoints but emphasizes the importance of aligning individual goals with the organization’s mission.

Balance is a key principle in Manigault’s leadership style. “Balance is one of my favorite words,” he states. “Especially in terms of employee engagement, because what works for one will not work for the other.” He emphasizes the dynamic nature of the workforce and the need for adaptable strategies that cater to evolving employee needs and expectations.

“Intentional awareness” is another crucial element. “You have to have intentional awareness,” Manigault asserts. “What is the impact that it is supposed to make? Who is it going to affect?” He believes that every decision should be driven by a clear purpose and a deep understanding of its potential consequences.

Manigault’s story is also one of achieving a long-held dream. “I dreamt this as a little boy,” he says of working at NASCAR. “And now here I am actually living it.” This personal triumph fuels his passion for creating opportunities for others. “Once you get a seat at the table,” he advises, “go find a chair for someone else to sit down.” He’s committed to mentoring, guiding, and empowering others to reach their full potential.

His dream of working at NASCAR has come true, but his focus remains firmly on the human element. “It’s not about just being able to see the race cars,” he explains. “There’s work for me to do with employee engagement and my role and the impact that I’m here to make. For me, it’s also about the people.” Manigault’s story is a powerful reminder that true leadership lies not just in personal accomplishment, but in using one’s platform to uplift and empower others.

For more exciting insight, be sure to attend SPARK HR 2025 in Orlando, April 30-May 2. We’ll be diving even deeper into engagement, leadership, and workplace culture with speakers from LinkedIn, Chobani, Microsoft, and more. It’s not just another conference—it’s hands-on, interactive, and a chance to connect with people who really get it. Plus, we’re adding some Disney magic, so you know it’s going to be a great experience. We hope to see you there!

This article is presented in partnership with HR Daily Advisor.