Leadership is an ongoing journey. It’s about evolving with challenges, adapting to changes, and inspiring others to achieve more than they thought possible. My career in hospitality, particularly as Corporate Vice President of Food & Beverage, has been full of lessons, many learned through both success and adversity. Here are some key takeaways that have shaped my perspective and approach as a leader.
1. Embrace Challenges as Opportunities for Innovation
In hospitality, we often face challenges like tight budgets, evolving customer preferences, and underutilized talent. Rather than seeing these as barriers, I’ve learned to view them as invitations to innovate. Whether it’s finding creative ways to elevate food and beverage operations or addressing the disconnect between strategy and execution, the key is to remain solution-focused and adaptable.
Takeaway: A true leader sees challenges not as obstacles but as stepping stones for growth and reinvention.
2. Lead with Vision, Not Just Execution
One of the greatest obstacles in hospitality is a lack of clear vision at every level. I’ve seen this firsthand with general managers who may not fully understand the nuances of food and beverage, leading to missed opportunities and stagnant ideas. As leaders, it’s our job to paint a picture of what’s possible and rally the team toward it.
Takeaway: Share your vision clearly and passionately—teams thrive when they can see where they’re going and why it matters.
3. Prioritize Development Over Filling Roles
A common pitfall in our industry is hiring to fill vacancies instead of investing in the right talent or training. I’ve worked to change this by identifying skill gaps, mentoring teams, and building a culture that values growth. Success isn’t just about having the right people in the room—it’s about giving them the tools to shine.
Takeaway: Don’t just fill positions; invest in people. Their growth is the foundation of long-term success.
4. Communicate with Purpose and Authenticity
Whether I’m hosting the Back of House podcast, writing my blog, or leading a team, communication is at the heart of everything I do. It’s not just about what you say—it’s about listening, adapting your style to your audience, and being honest, even in difficult conversations.
Takeaway: Great communication is a two-way street. Speak clearly, listen actively, and always remain authentic.
5. Stay Curious and Keep Sharing
Writing my book, 1 Mile of Runway, has reminded me of the value of storytelling—not just as a way to reflect but as a means of teaching and inspiring. Hospitality is about creating experiences, and sharing stories from our world allows others to connect, learn, and grow.
Takeaway: Leaders are storytellers. Share your experiences to inspire others and encourage innovation.
6. Push Boundaries, but Stay Grounded
From redefining dining concepts to challenging old habits, leadership is about knowing when to push for change. But it’s also about staying grounded—never forgetting the basics of service, quality, and human connection.
Takeaway: Balance ambition with authenticity. Always remember what brought you to this industry in the first place.
Final Thoughts: Leadership Is a Journey
Leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about asking the right questions, inspiring your team, and never stopping the pursuit of better. In my work, whether it’s on the podcast, in my book, or during a team meeting, I try to remind myself and others that progress happens when we stay curious, open, and committed to growth.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that leadership doesn’t end when you’ve reached the top—it begins. So here’s to the journey, the lessons, and the people who make it all worth it.
Feel free to share your own thoughts or experiences in the comments—I’d love to hear what leadership lessons have shaped your journey.
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