How Women Leaders Are Shaping the Future of the Restaurant Industry
How Women Leaders Are Transforming the Restaurant Industry
The restaurant industry has faced unprecedented challenges recently, from fluctuating profitability to labor shortages. However, one powerful trend stands out: the impact of women leading with authenticity and empathy. In a recent panel hosted by Full Course, industry leaders Heather Neary, Lauren Fernandez, Robin Brooks, and QSR magazine’s Satine Doner shared how authentic leadership from women is reshaping restaurant operations and employee engagement.
Empathy: The Key to Stronger Teams
Empathy in leadership isn't about softness—it's about creating psychological safety, explains Satine Doner. She notes, "Empathy does not equal softness. It’s strength and active listening. It creates genuine connections and trust within teams."
Lauren Fernandez, Founder & CEO of Full Course, reinforces this sentiment: “Empathy is the single largest area where our industry needs improvement. It’s one of the most critical factors because we're fundamentally a people business.”
Heather Neary, President of Taco John's, echoes this importance, sharing how empathy builds trust and opens critical dialogues:
“If someone’s performance slips, I always start by asking, ‘Is everything okay at home?’ People appreciate leaders who genuinely care. Those moments create lasting loyalty and engagement.”
Authenticity: Being Yourself is Good Business
Authenticity in leadership means showing up as your real self, without pretending or overly editing your behavior. Neary highlights that being real helps leaders connect deeply with their teams:
“Authenticity is being real—employees value honesty, transparency, and clarity. Even tough conversations become easier when you’re truly yourself.”
Lauren Fernandez, who built Full Course around authentic and solution-oriented values, points out that authenticity also means embracing vulnerability and transparency.
Building Trust and Cultivating Loyalty
Creating a culture of trust means actively demonstrating the values leaders promote. Transparent leadership doesn't just happen—it must be modeled consistently. Heather Neary shares a practical example:
“I keep my calendar open for everyone to see. It's a small gesture but communicates transparency clearly to my team."
Robin Brooks highlights the role of clear communication in fostering a positive environment:
“Employees want to know they're valued. Constant reinforcement of organizational values makes a significant difference in engagement and loyalty.”
Empowering Employees Through Feedback
Consistent, transparent feedback is another cornerstone. Satine Doner, who transitioned from an intern to associate editor at QSR, credits open communication and direct mentorship for her career success:
“When leadership genuinely invests in your potential, you’re inspired to give your absolute best. Open dialogue and constructive feedback are incredibly motivating.”
Heather Neary emphasizes timely, honest conversations as essential:
“Feedback conversations don’t get easier over time. Addressing them promptly and directly prevents problems from becoming toxic.”
Practical Takeaways for Authentic Leadership
- Practice empathy openly—lead with understanding and genuine care.
- Be authentically yourself to build trust and foster deeper connections.
- Encourage transparent communication about both positive achievements and constructive feedback.
- Create opportunities for employees to participate in solutions, increasing buy-in and engagement.
- Invest in your team's growth and professional development, even beyond your organization.
The restaurant industry thrives on authentic leadership, and women leaders are setting new standards. By fostering empathy, authenticity, and transparency, restaurant operators can build stronger teams, improve profitability, and create a positive, high-performance culture.
