Christopher Benson’s Post

Here's the real deal: leadership is a glorious, chaotic orchestra of roles, each demanding its own tune. As an experienced DEI thought leader, founder of a thriving DEI and comms consultancy, and yes, the queen of juggling (both figuratively and on the netball court!), I've seen it all – the dizzying highs of a client breakthrough, the quiet satisfaction of mentoring a team member, the messy beauty of family life, and the soul-nourishing warmth of community-driven change. But let's be honest, it's not all sunshine and confetti. The balance, as always, is the hardest act. Deadlines tap-dance with dinner demands, ambitions clash with emotional needs, and spreadsheet numbers mingle with whispered vulnerabilities. It's a constant ebb and flow, leaving me exhilarated one moment and utterly drained the next. Yet, through it all, one thread remains: the relentless pursuit of inclusive leadership. Building spaces where everyone feels heard, valued, and empowered. Amplifying diverse voices, and championing connection. That's why I'm delighted to host the Inclusive Leadership event on February 7th! Joining forces with three incredible leaders who've walked the leadership tightrope, stumbled, soared, and come out the other side with lessons etched in experience. I'm taking notes, soaking in their stories, and ready to weave their wisdom into the tapestry of my own journey. ✨ If you, like me, strive to be an inclusive leader, whether navigating teams, families, communities, or your own dreams, join us on February 7th (in-person or online!). Let's learn from each other, lift each other up, and weave a future where inclusive leadership isn't just a goal, it's the very fabric of our lives. Find out more & register to attend. https://lnkd.in/dUEey8eJ See you there! #inclusiveleadership #vulnerableleadership #community #learningjourney #event

“Make [self care] a priority as the individual…as a leader, you have to facilitate an environment where people feel like they're empowered to do it and give them the permission to do it. When you come into an organization and you're leading a team, some people feel like they can't take time off or while they're on vacation or over the weekend, send emails or get on calls. And I'm the first one on my team that discourages that. And frankly, times where I just demand that people don't do that. There has to be a period where you're recharging the batteries and recuperating…step away for a little bit and come back and be able to pick it back up again and rev the engine higher than I did before.” Aly El-Bassuni, Divisional President, Aimbridge Hospitality WATCH NOW:  https://lnkd.in/gyX9rDuG LISTEN NOW: https://lnkd.in/gZFU9Ru5 Aly discusses with Rachel Humphrey of DEI Advisors why he insists on leading a corporate culture which includes self-care. He shares why he and his family have opted to move several times to support his career and how he evaluates those decisions along with tackling other risks and challenges. He talks about relationship building in a small industry and developing leadership skills, especially strategies to manage others as you develop a team. He also tells his younger self to view life as a marathon not a sprint. #diversityandinclusion #deiadvisors #leadership #hospitalityindustry #empoweringpersonalsuccess #dei  

To celebrate Fidelio’s #15thAnniversary, we are exploring some of the key developments in the Boardroom that we have engaged with since 2009. Board thinking on #culture is potentially the most significant of these. 📣 Championing Culture 📣 The Financial Crisis taught us a lot about culture, and in the following 15 years Boards have been tasked with ensuring a healthy and strong culture throughout the organisation. Initially many Boards were sceptical about their ability to influence culture, but this has developed substantially. Today a significant part of Fidelio’s Board reviews focus on the Board’s grasp of culture, as well as the tools and levers available to the Board to ensure that the right culture is being embedded company-wide.     To read the full Fidelio Overture on what’s changed and what’s new in the Boardroom, please click below: https://lnkd.in/en5J3s_8   Gillian Karran-Cumberlege Mark Cumberlege Alistair Stranack Louise Weston Joanna McDwyer Luciano Dutra Zampieri #culture #governance #boardroom #boardofdirectors #review #search

🌟 A Profound Cafeteria Encounter 🌟 Sharing a momentous experience from my journey at Travelers– an encounter that epitomizes the remarkable qualities of our distinguished CEO, Alan Schnitzer Approximately one year ago, while I was queuing up in the cafeteria, a surprising and unforgettable meeting unfolded. The person standing right behind me was none other than our esteemed CEO.  During our unexpected encounter, Alan initiated a conversation with me. To my surprise, he was aware of the some of the projects I had contributed to. This moment was surreal, and filled me with immense pride. The photograph encapsulates more than just a scene; it portrays the essence of leadership that Alan embodies. Amidst his towering professional stature, he remained unassuming, willing to wait in line for his meal, in harmony with the workforce. This is a testament to his humility and grounded approach to leadership. he is not merely an executive; he is a compassionate mentor, advocating for mutual support and unwavering commitment to fulfilling our promises to our customers. His advocacy and actions have had a profound impact on me. His unwavering commitment resonates deeply within me, inspiring me to consistently bring my very best to the forefront. This moment, and his dedication to our mission, have been truly remarkable and a source of personal inspiration. As I share this image with you all, let it spark a fearless attitude in you – the kind that's unafraid to take the first step and isn't daunted by interactions with executives. In settings like these, accessibility and approachability are the norm. #CEOEncounter #InspirationalLeadership #TravelersEmployee #throwbackthursday

Celebrating a Year of Success, Growth, and Client-Centric Vision: On 19th October 2023, our distinguished management team, convened to discuss an exceptional summer season, including unforgettable festivals like Electric Picnic, Horizon Irish Open, St. Patricks Day, All Together Now, and more. Achievements: It's with immense pride that we announce a phenomenal 55% growth this year, thanks to the relentless dedication of our team and the trust of our clients. Addressing Challenges: We openly explored challenges faced during these festivals, seeking innovative solutions to further elevate the client experience. Vision for Tomorrow: Our short-term vision centres on client-centric service and fostering a culture of recognition. We value the unique qualities that each team member brings to the table. Strengthening Staffing: Staffing and communication matters were thoroughly discussed, with the goal of enhancing team collaboration during long, demanding shifts. As we conclude an extraordinary year, our focus remains unwavering, inspired by the desire to provide exceptional service to our clients. We look forward to sharing this exciting journey with you! #CelebratingSuccess #ClientCentricVision #Leadership #ExceptionalService #FestivalSeason #TeamCollaboration #GrowthAndInnovation

This Women’s History Month, we had the pleasure of connecting with Kate Knecht, the General Manager at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Pittsburgh - Cranberry. A seasoned hotelier, Kate has worked in the hospitality industry for over a decade and has served with Remington Hospitality for over two years. Not only is Kate the first female General Manager at her hotel, but she consistently exceeds our aggressive hotel goals and plays a critical role in ensuring the overall success of the property. Learn more about Kate and the women who made a lasting impact on her life. 💡 Who is the most influential woman in your life? How does she inspire you? Kate: Extending far beyond a single woman, inspirational women have been a part of my journey since childhood. From women I became intrinsically tied to in college to the amazing women I collaborate with every day at work, their steadfast support and guidance have been instrumental in molding me into the devoted mother and resilient leader I am today. 📽 When you think back over your life and everything you’ve accomplished, what moment stands out that makes you proud of yourself? Kate: In the professional realm, my proudest achievement is becoming the first female to attain the title of General Manager in the 36-year history of the DoubleTree Pittsburgh - Cranberry. It's not just a personal milestone, but a testament to breaking barriers and setting a new standard for leadership in the hospitality industry. 🎓 What is the best advice you can give or have been given? Kate: Believe in your potential. You are meant to achieve remarkable things. It's time to overcome self-imposed barriers and stride confidently towards your extraordinary future. #remingtonhospitality #roomtothrive #womenshistorymonth #womeninhospitality #diversityandinclusion

“The perspective that I've learned over this past year is that we can do hard things well. Sometimes you think that was a tough year, that was a tough project, and it's going to get easier…you're growing from those hard times so that you're prepared for the next hard thing you do. And I've really learned that I can do that next thing. I can do that hard thing. And at the end of the day it's nice to see and realize that when the next hard thing comes, and I have that doubt, I can look back on this and go, oh, it will work out. It will be for the benefit of everyone.” Julie Arrowsmith, President & CEO, G6 Hospitality LLC Hospitality WATCH NOW: https://lnkd.in/eHHV9d5F LISTEN NOW: https://lnkd.in/eHTWpX7E Julie discusses with Rachel Humphrey of DEI Advisors her style of leadership, the biggest lesson she's learned over the past year, and how it will impact her moving forward. She shares her approach to public speaking, how she overcomes self doubts, and how staying fresh and learning the whole business helped her grow during her first 29 years at G6, eventually resulting in her current CEO role. Finally, Julie talks about managing business travel, finding time to refresh outside of work, and the underlying basis for her mantra of "be kind to everyone always." #diversityandinclusion #deiadvisors #leadership #hospitalityindustry #empoweringpersonalsuccess #dei #womeninhospitality #womenempoweringwomen

Ready to shine? The nomination process is simple! Step into the spotlight by following 4 easy steps. Nominate yourself for the #GoldenPillarAwards and let your achievements be celebrated! Click the link below to begin your journey. https://lnkd.in/dxduFUGM #CREDAIMCHI #RealEstate #NominationProcess #AwardFunction

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