With International Women’s Day 2026 just one day away, our QLD GC, Laura, took five with our team to share her leadership experiences and advice. In alignment with this year’s theme, when it comes to creating a mindset and culture of generosity and collaboration, Laura’s key focus is her people.

“For me, Give to Gain is about investing in people and sharing success. I spend a lot of time coaching leaders, creating opportunities for them to grow and encouraging collaboration across our restaurants. When leaders share ideas, support one another and celebrate each other’s wins, it strengthens the entire business.

“When we focus on lifting others and helping them succeed, the results follow naturally.

Over the past 16 years, Laura’s been leading teams across some of Australia’s largest national retailers. After being recognised as Area Manager of the Year across multiple businesses, our strong values-led approach won Laura over, and we’re so excited she joined our team last year as QLD Growth Coach.

“What I love most about Grill’d is the opportunity to develop people and build future leaders. Grill’d creates an environment where leaders can grow, challenge themselves and learn through experience.

“Being able to influence that journey for our Managers and teams, and seeing people step into their potential, is what excites me most about being part of Grill’d.

If there was one piece of advise Laura would give to aspiring leaders, it’s no surprise it comes back to the team around you.

“Focus less on being the best person in the room and more on developing the people around you.

“Great leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about asking the right questions, creating belief in others and building a team that can achieve far more together than any individual could alone.

To feel good in the moment and beyond, Laura’s Grill’d go-to order is a classic.

“It’s a Summer Sunset on a traditional bun”.

At Grill’d, we’re all about endless opportunity. We encourage our team to choose their own career path, and we’re here to make it happen 👉 https://careers.grilld.com.au/