BOSSNews Magazine Winter 2014 | Page 31

In and of itself the entertainment industry is pretty fickle, unruly, and unpredictable. It is like the sea and a night club is like a fishing boat being tossed on its waves of trends, fads, and uncertainties. Just as it takes a skilled captain to navigate through storms and rough conditions to profitable fishing spots then safely bring his crew back home; so does it takes a General Manager to keep their establishment relevant. A position many would deem fit only for a man. Few women have attempted and succeeded as a Night Club General Manager. Even fewer secured longevity in the industry.

Renee Byrd intends on being a trendsetter and not only to survive but to thrive in this position. Her employees respect her, guests acknowledge her, and the club succeeds because of her leadership and determination.

Renee’s story is one of those that bring to life the saying, “never despise humble beginnings.” We all want to be the BOSS. But even the BOSS was once a worker. After the crash of the housing market, Renee found herself out of a job as a commercial realtor. “It was like a storm you could not avoid.” She says. At one time Renee managed several strip malls that were virtually filled to capacity, however, slowly but surely rates started to increase, tenants began to decrease, and the need for a branch commercial realtor dissipated.

After several months of looking for a job Renee applied for hostess position at the now Karma Bistro. From there she worked her way up the ranks, evidence that work ethic, discipline, and fortitude can be the determining factor between you being a BOSS or remaining an entry level worker.

We have no doubt that it was Renee’s innovative way of thinking that allowed her to secure her position. She is constantly thinking of new ways to promote the establishment. She has partnered with school board officials, entertainers, and media partners, etc. all of which allows Karma Bistro the opportunity to effectively service different markets.

Whenever she is asked about the success of the club Renee will most likely reply using the word “we.” She recognizes that it takes a team to achieve success, a value that we at BOSSNews applaud her for exuding. She often refers to the major strides her team is making, the headliners they brought in, and the innovated ways they are utilizing the space.

So what is the future of the Karma Bistro? I want it to continue to thrive as one of the hottest clubs in Stone Mountain. The facility is such a beautiful place and suitable for all types of organizations, businesses, and foundations.

“I am usually the first one here and the last one to leave the club,” Renee says. Her dedication to the continued expansion of the company is admirable. She puts in long hours and meets with several decision makers in the surrounding area. With each day Renee is literally changing the approach and process to club promotions.

Somehow, Renee still manages to spend quality time with her husband and son. There are certain times of the week were Renee will not book anything because it is reserved for time with her family. We saw this first hand, throughout the process of conducting her interview and photo shoot This dedication to her family and the firm stands she took in preserving the time she set aside for them is a behavior that our team will put into practice and encourage our readers to do the same.

Just like a BOSS leading by example even when unaware that people are observing. Often times we see people who speak of how important family is and how they uphold certain values. Although she is a woman of few words, this Business Savvy Southern Bell silently teaches women how to be a BOSS through mere action an ability we believe every woman should strive to develop.

Renee is also a fashionista at heart and soon plans to open a women’s boutique, something that we at BOSSNews are definitely looking forward to. She has such a sophisticated and classy style about her that we are certain her merchandise will have the same.

What is your definition of a BOSS? A BOSS is a leader. She insures those around her are excelling and prospering. She leads by example and is not afraid to show weakness. She pulls strength from her passion and understands the importance of surrounding herself with a good support system.

If you had 30 seconds to speak to every girl in America what would you tell them? Anything is possible. Don’t let the opinions of others stop you from pursuing great things.