Franchise Update Magazine Issue I, 2014 | Page 46

WOMEN AT THE TOP, continued STEWART continued from page 37 ate all she is doing to bring a modern sensibility to this organization, and her ability to use it to help our young women confront problems and issues they face today while building their skills, self-confidence, and sense of empowerment. Advice for young female CEO aspirants: Believe in yourself and your abilities (while continuing to add to them and improve them). Don’t let a fear of being perceived as pushy or aggressive stop you from speaking your leading a company to fulfill the very best it has to offer. But I also realized I had to prepare and work at learning everything I needed to know. That’s why, after many years as a marketing executive, I left and took a job as a general manager in a restaurant so I could learn the operations side of the business as well. And in retrospect, while not a logical career move up the ladder, it was invaluable to me. What do you love most about being CEO? I always tell my franchisees “Don’t let a fear of being perceived as pushy or aggressive stop you from speaking your mind and giving your opinion.” that “their success is our success,” and I mean it, not just in a commercial sense. I love being a part of what enables them to grow their businesses and provide for their families and create jobs for others. IHOP has been around 55 years and Applebee’s more than 30, and at both brands we’ve seen generations of families work at building a successful enterprise and pass it on. We also have some franchisees who began as cooks or team members in a restaurant and now own multiple units—it’s truly the American success story. How gratifying is that! I also love to lead. I believe it is an honor and a privilege, and one I take very seriously. mind and giving your opinion (provided it’s well thought out). And, conversely, don’t let the fear of being perceived as passive keep you from listening… really listening. How much of your time do you spend at that, and what are you doing to spend more? I spend a Describe your leadership style: In a word, inclusive. While I am definitely responsible for making the final decision and acting on it, I am always cognizant of the fact that everyone on my team has something to offer, and I try to make sure they are aware that I know that too, and that their contribution is both valued and appreciated. In my career, I’ve earned the nickname “the Velvet Hammer.” I like to think it’s because I make my decisions firmly, but with respect for others. Was becoming CEO of an organization part of your professional plan? Yes, actually, it was. I felt strongly that loving this industry as I do, I could make a valuable contribution toward 44 Franchiseupdate ISS U E I, 2 0 1 4 great deal of time working to ensure that both our brands remain current and sensitive to the needs and wants of our guests, and making sure we con F