Breaking Barriers: International Women’s Day and The Future of Leadership in Hospitality
For me, International Women’s Day is an opportunity to reflect on the incredible women who have paved the way before us, those who inspire us today, and those we are responsible for mentoring and uplifting for the future.
International Women’s Day is a powerful reminder to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and achievements worldwide. It’s a time to recognize how far we’ve come, call for continued change, and honor the courage and determination of women who have shaped history in their families, workplaces, and communities. Regardless of background, women have been a transformative force, breaking barriers and creating lasting impact.
As the President and CEO of Jeff Ruby Culinary Entertainment, this day holds a profound significance for me. It’s more than just a celebration—it’s a moment to reflect on the progress we’ve made, especially in industries where leadership roles were once dominated by men. There’s still much work to be done, but the strides we’ve taken inspire me daily as I continue to push for change and empower women to lead with purpose and strength.
For decades, the restaurant industry was one where leadership positions overwhelmingly belonged to men. But that landscape is shifting. Women are making their mark, not just in the culinary arts but also in every facet of hospitality—from operations and leadership to innovation and guest experience. At Jeff Ruby Culinary Entertainment, I have seen firsthand the power of diversity, the strength of inclusion, and the undeniable impact of women’s leadership. The presence of strong, capable women in this industry is no longer the exception—it is the expectation.
I am especially grateful for my dad, Jeff Ruby, who has always supported me and helped me break down barriers in this industry. His belief in my abilities and unwavering encouragement have been instrumental in my journey as a leader. He has set the standard for excellence, and his guidance has been a driving force in my commitment to ensuring that opportunities for women in hospitality continue to grow.
The lessons I've learned from my dad have not only shaped my professional journey but also prepared me for the challenges that come with balancing leadership and life. As women, we juggle so much—career ambitions, family responsibilities, personal growth—and often feel pulled in a thousand directions. I know that struggle well, and I am sure many of you do. Finding time for work and family is never easy; some days, I feel stretched thin. However, prioritizing family and faith is the foundation that keeps me grounded, especially as I balance career and leadership responsibilities. When those priorities are in place, everything else falls into perspective.
At the heart of it all, it is my strong faith that offers me direction in how to serve, lead, provide comfort in moments of solitude, and find inspiration when challenges arise. Faith in something beyond myself helps quiet the doubts and calm the fears, allowing me to lead from a place of strength and optimism. My faith also cultivates humility, reminding me that in the grand scope of the universe, we are but a tiny speck—but that doesn’t mean we should do nothing. Instead, we are called to make the most of our time in the service of others. Jesus reminded his followers, “Whoever would be first among you must be servant of all.” This belief shapes my leadership approach, ensuring I remain intentional about exhibiting God’s power and presence in every aspect of my work.
For me, International Women’s Day is an opportunity to reflect on the incredible women who have paved the way before us, those who inspire us today, and those we are responsible for mentoring and uplifting for the future. It’s about breaking barriers and proving that leadership isn’t defined by gender but by vision, dedication, and the willingness to challenge the status quo. As a woman leading a legacy brand, I embrace the responsibility of championing equity in leadership. I strive to ensure that our company is not just a great place to work but a place where talent and drive are the only prerequisites for success. From our kitchens to our boardrooms, from the front of the house to the back, we are committed to fostering an environment where women are empowered to lead, innovate, and redefine the future of hospitality.
This International Women’s Day, I celebrate the resilience, talent, and leadership of the women in our company and across the industry. I want to remind every woman reading this: You are stronger than you realize, braver than you think, and more capable than you sometimes believe. No matter where you are in your journey—whether leading a business, raising a family, pursuing a passion, or simply navigating life’s daily challenges—you are making an impact.
Let’s continue to elevate each other, push boundaries, and create opportunities that ensure the next generation of women in hospitality knows no limits.
xo,
brit
Brit’s Book Recommendation: Boundaries- by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend
(I’m recommending Boundaries… AGAIN! Because on International Women’s Day, there’s no better reminder: protecting your time, energy, and peace isn’t just important—it’s essential. This book is a game-changer, and I can’t stress enough how much it can transform your life.)
