Discover the leadership style of Lysa Hardy, the new CEO of Hotel Chocolat.
- Lysa begins her day with a structured morning routine that sets a productive tone.
- She values constant learning, tying her goals closely to personal values.
- Hardy has experienced challenging times, yet approaches them with a human-first mindset.
- Balancing work and life is crucial for Lysa, finding time for family and personal interests.
Lysa Hardy, the newly appointed CEO of Hotel Chocolat, is a leader who values structure and discipline. Each morning, she dedicates time to both physical exercise and reading, whether it’s a book aimed at self-improvement or a brief dip into the Financial Times. This routine provides her with the clarity and focus needed for the day ahead.
Her commitment to personal growth is unwavering. Hardy is an advocate of setting and tracking goals meticulously, linking every objective to her core values. This approach ensures she remains driven, even during the toughest times. ‘I love to learn and I always want to do better,’ Hardy explains, underscoring her quest for continual improvement.
A significant challenge in Hardy’s career was managing the emotional aftermath of a tragic incident involving a store manager. The experience required her to employ not just her crisis management skills but also immense empathy. By prioritising human relationships, Hardy was able to support her team and the broader community effectively, viewing herself as a person first and a business leader second.
Hardy’s advice is clear: work should never overshadow life. Despite a busy career, she makes it a point to engage in personal pursuits, whether walking dogs or gardening. This balance, she believes, is essential for well-being.
Reflecting on her career, Lysa Hardy recalls her early retail days on a market stall as foundational. Selling shoes at fourteen taught her essential retail principles: understanding customer needs, offering the right products, and ensuring a memorable sales experience. Her curiosity and engagement aren’t just professional; they extend to her personal life, where hobbies like gardening provide a rewarding counterbalance.
Lysa Hardy exemplifies a well-rounded and human-centred approach to leadership, balancing professional acumen with personal fulfilment.
