IWD 2026 - Interview with Beverley D'Cruz

Through our CORE International Women’s Day Interview Series, we showcase inspiring industry leaders who embody the power of giving back to grow forward.

This is Beverley D'Cruz, VP - General Manager- Pizza Hut Middle East and Pakistan - Yum! Brands

Could you share a brief overview of yourself, your career journey and how it has brought you to your current role?

 I am a visionary strategic leader and MIT graduate with over 20 years of global experience, most recently serving as the first female Vice President and General Manager at Yum! Brands for Pizza Hut in the Middle East and Pakistan. My career journey began in brand management at Unilever before evolving through high-impact leadership roles across Canada and the UK, where I built a reputation as a business turnaround specialist and a pioneer of digital transformation. Driven by a leadership philosophy of "Smart, Heart, and Courage," I transitioned from driving major market recoveries to overseeing $1.6B in revenue and spearheading AI-driven innovation alongside social purpose platforms like Opportunity4All. Currently, I am leveraging my experience in large-scale transformations and my roles on the boards of the CMO Council and the International Women Board of Directors to focus on the next chapter of driving growth and inclusive culture

What does the International Women's Day slogan "give to gain" mean for you personally, and how does it translate into your approach to leadership?

For me, “Give to Gain” means investing in people before expecting results. When you give trust, clarity, and opportunity, you gain commitment, ownership, and resilience. My leadership focuses on generosity with standards, supporting growth while holding accountability, because leaders who grow others build stronger teams and more sustainable success.

Can you share a specific instance where you have given your time, resources, or influence to help other women advance in their career, and what you "gained" from that experience?

One meaningful example was advocating for and sponsoring women by opening doors to opportunity and investing time in coaching and influence. This included helping create pathways for women to work in Saudi Arabia for the first time through women only restaurants led and run entirely by women. What I gained was perspective, pride, and a deep belief in the multiplier effect of inclusive leadership.

What trends do you see shaping the future of leadership for women in business?

 The future of leadership for women is being shaped by greater flexibility, global careers, and a shift towards empatheticleadership. There is growing value placed on empathy, adaptability, and purpose alongside performance. Women are also building influence through networks and sponsorship, redefining leadership in ways that are more inclusive, sustainable, and impact driven.

What legacy do you hope to leave for the next generation of women leaders?

 I hope to leave a legacy that shows women they do not have to choose between strength and empathy, ambition and humanity. That leadership can be shaped on their terms. If I’ve helped open doors, build confidence, and make space for others to lead with courage and authenticity, that is a legacy worth leaving.

What is one piece of advice you would give your younger self at the start of your career?

I would tell my younger self to trust her voice sooner and stop waiting for permission. Progress comes from courage, not perfection. Invest in relationships, take care of your energy, and remember that confidence grows through action. You do not need to have it all figured out to begin.