Lysa Hardy, the new CEO of Hotel Chocolat, brings a unique approach to leadership, emphasising personal growth and resilience.
In an exclusive perspective, Hardy shares her routine and insights, providing a glimpse into the principles guiding her leadership at Hotel Chocolat.
Hardy starts her day with an early morning workout, which includes either pilates or an incline walk while reading, setting a disciplined tone for the day.
Her mornings are filled with learning; she often revisits books like ‘Measure What Matters’ to enhance her skills and knowledge. Coffee is essential, with a preference for a black Americano as she engages with her children when possible.
Driven by a passion for improvement, Hardy articulates the importance of setting goals linked to personal values. She meticulously plans and tracks her progress to ensure alignment with what matters most.
Even during challenging times, she remains steadfast, understanding her ‘why’ and maintaining clarity on her objectives. This strategic alignment helps her navigate through difficult situations effectively.
Hardy’s crisis management skills were tested profoundly when a former retail colleague was murdered, a situation she describes as both horrific and unprecedented.
In such emotionally charged circumstances, she emphasised the human aspect first, supporting her team and their varied grieving processes, balancing empathy with leadership responsibilities.
Through prioritising humanity over business, she led with compassion, reinforcing the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership, particularly during crises.
Hardy advises against sacrificing personal life for work, highlighting the significance of balance in maintaining overall well-being.
She reflects on the foundational retail principles learned from her early career, such as understanding customer needs and delivering quality experiences.
These experiences have informed her leadership style, ensuring that business success does not come at the expense of personal happiness.
Hardy draws inspiration broadly, learning from everyone she encounters, from colleagues to mentors.
She reveals a deep interest in architecture, stating that if not in retail, she would have pursued a career in designing spaces that influence how people live.
This passion for transformative environments reflects her holistic approach to leadership, considering the broader impact of her work on people’s lives.
Maintaining a good sleep routine is crucial for Hardy, who finds that rest aids in clearer thinking and better decision-making.
She highlights the small recollections that can disturb sleep, often trivial matters, underscoring the human need to manage stress and stay organised.
Through rest and reflection, Hardy rejuvenates her mind, ensuring she approaches each day with renewed energy and focus.
Family time and personal hobbies, such as gardening, occupy Hardy’s leisure hours, offering a retreat from her demanding role.
Her passion for growth is not just confined to her professional life, as evidenced by her thriving greenhouse, which symbolises her nurturing spirit and constant evolution.
Lysa Hardy’s leadership at Hotel Chocolat is shaped by her commitment to growth, balance, and empathy, setting a transformative path for the company.
Her strategies, rooted in personal and professional alignment, provide a model for navigating the complexities of modern leadership.
