Monday Momentum with Kristin Vekteris

Kristin Vekteris , our Chief Brand Officer, kicks our week off by discussing leadership development, fostering gender inclusivity, and advocating for well-being in the hospitality industry.

Can you reflect on any pivotal moments or experiences that have shaped your career journey at Earls?

It’s been an incredible eight year journey at Earls. I continue to learn and be challenged every day. A highlight for me has been building a high performing and inspiring team. I feel lucky to be surrounded by a very special group of people. Another big highlight for me is Earls’ growth. I’m especially proud and excited about our openings in Toronto (my hometown) and our rapid expansion into the USA. Upcoming we have Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Waikiki. But what has shaped me as much as my successes are my failures. I believe in taking risks, learning from my mistakes and most importantly, celebrating the wins no matter how big or small they are.

What drives and motivates you in your career?

The two things that really fuel me are building an industry-leading brand and fostering people development. Leading the Earls brand is a privilege and the challenge of keeping the brand fresh and relevant for as many consumers as possible in all our markets is a great motivator. And even more rewarding is watching my people grow and flourish. Developing people is a key aspect of the culture at Earls and it’s an honour to lead such a talented team.

What steps do you believe organizations can take to create a more gender inclusive workplace environment?

Inclusivity starts at the senior leadership level. I’m proud to say that half our C-Suite are women. It sends a message that we feel inclusivity is an important aspect of our organization and who we are. It’s also critical for organizations to create a safe and respectful environment so people can thrive regardless of their gender.

What advice would you give to other women aspiring to be leaders in their careers?

Believe in yourself. Be the champion of your career. Be bold, take risks, speak up, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. But most importantly, don’t do it alone. Find a mentor and build a network of women to support and cheer you on. Women supporting women is a very powerful thing.

Are there any specific areas or causes within your industry that you are particularly passionate about or interested in exploring further?

The hospitality industry is demanding and competitive so prioritizing mental health and well-being is critical. Especially in this post-pandemic world, we need to cultivate awareness and education around checking in with people, supporting them and equipping them with the right tools if they need it. I am also a big advocate of exercise, movement, and spending time in nature. It’s time to un-glamourize ‘hustle culture’ and encourage slowing down and giving people the space they need to have a life outside of work. This benefits both the individual and the company.

Kristin is on Women We Admire's Top 50 Women Leaders of Vancouver list for 2024! She has been awarded for her incredible talent, Earls' growth strategy, and her mentorship. Learn more about this incredible achievement here.