Female Leaders – IWD2022 – Meredith Sandland

To celebrate International Women’s Day 2022, Sara interviews Meredith Sandland, Fortune 500 Executive, Board Member & Advisor - Stealth Mode Restaurant Start-upm Epic Kitchens, Butterfly Equity, Cyrano.ai, Learn.Delivery

What does IWD mean to you? 

 International Women’s Day is a day to reflect on all the progress we’ve made and to recommit continuing to progress.

Why haven't we achieved equality, despite legislation in place regarding pay? 

Grow women’s careers and you will grow their pay. #upnotout

How would you advise young women leaders on how to build confidence in their ability as a manager and leader? 

Confidence grows with practice – put yourself out there and learn from all feedback. 

What initiatives should companies invest in to promote women in leadership and an inclusive workplace? 

The best thing companies can do to elevate women is to treat all types of people equally.  I have often found that workplaces with “women’s programs” have a culture problem they are trying to solve at the margin rather than dealing with the root cause. The best workplaces for women are the ones that are great for everyone.

Is there a particular leader / figure you look up to? 

Melissa Lora taught me so much about restaurants, about work, and about life.  Great role models are irreplaceable! 

What advice would you give to your younger self? 

Calling things what they are makes them easier to deal with.