International Women's Day
BIANCA, OWNER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR
This International Women's Day we are proud to showcase the inspiring journey of the incredible women who lead within our company. Our commitment to internal succession and fostering women's growth is at the heart of what we do and we are proud to shine a light on this legacy that shapes our Kookai world everyday.
MARIA, HEAD OF PEOPLE & DEVELOPMENT
How do you think internal succession contributes to a stronger, more empowered workplace culture?
Internal succession undeniably strengthens workplace culture by fostering loyalty, commitment, career development, and passion among our team. We take pride that over 70% of our office employees are women who have been promoted from the retail shop floor.
This strategy has been our legacy - Rob (Our Founder) started this focus by promoting me as Kookai's first Area Manager back in the 90s. I had no previous Area Management experience, being a secondary school teacher was my "career plan" but he had faith and belief that I could do the job and basically "gave me a go"...the rest is history.
So when team members see a clear future within a company that drives internal succession planning, they take greater ownership and pride in their work. This further contributes to a strong workplace culture (which no doubt drives our company’s success).
What’s one way you actively support or inspire the next generation of women leaders within the company?
In my role as a People and Development leader, supporting our incredible women is at the heart of what I do, it's my key responsibility.
One way I do this is by connecting with our younger leaders regularly. Alongside my incredible P&D team, we will frequently travel to all stores to have one on one check ins with all Store Managers. This is about building a connection and looking out for future talent in the next generation. I love getting to know our people and encouraging them to build on their skills by guiding, coaching and mentoring. Inspiring others is simply leading by example, being an approachable role model who is available to anyone regardless of position and tenure. Someone who genuinely cares about people makes all the difference.
If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of career advice, what would it be?
Time moves quickly, so enjoy the moment and embrace every opportunity, even if it is not in your "career plan". You’ll learn and grow regardless of what you are doing. Stay committed and give your best. Your dedication and consistent hard work won’t go unnoticed, and career growth will follow naturally. Most importantly, be patient with your journey - some things are truly worth the wait!
DANIELLE, STORE DESIGN MANAGER
How has mentorship or support from other leaders within the company influenced your career progression?
The trust and opportunity given to me by our leaders has been instrumental in my career progression and their mentorship has fostered an environment where learning never stops. Even after many years here, I still feel like every day is a chance to develop in a space that is both creative and collaborative—something truly unique to our company.
JULIA, HEAD OF MERCHANDISE
How has internal succession shaped your career journey at KOOKAÏ?
Being surrounded by strong, intelligent and empowering women every day has been a catalyst for my development and growth. Witnessing Kookai leaders drive change and pursue goals together through diverse styles has been instrumental in my personal and professional growth.
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to leadership positions?
To trust in your own individual abilities and embrace every challenge. Own your mistakes and use them as valuable learning tools to improve. Invest in your continuous development and seek out mentors that inspire you to learn, grow and succeed.
What’s one key lesson you’ve learned that has helped you grow as a leader?
Leadership is a privalge not a right - it is about empowering others through authenticity, consistency, empathy and inclusivity.
RACHEL, HEAD OF SUPPLY CHAIN
How has KOOKAÏ supported your leadership journey, and what impact has it had on your career?
The unwavering trust and belief that the family and the company have had in me as a leader has been inspiring. To have the constant support of the Kookai family is a big motivator to continue working hard to expand and implement new strategies within not only our stores but also our factories.
Kookai offers amazing internal and external training which has provided continuous support to learn and gain new skills that I can use in my role. I have been fortunate enough to visit both of our factories in Fiji and Sri Lanka which has given me unparalleled insights into the manufacturing process that will help me to grow in my career.
What does it mean to you to work in a company where women are consistently supported and promoted from within?
Coming from the shop floor myself, I have experienced firsthand Kookai’s support and recognition in promoting from within the company. It makes me feel empowered to work for a company that supports women and their careers. I have watched my managers consistently being promoted over the years, which has motivated me to work hard and grow in my own career. I now want to be that role model for other women in the company and help them on their journey.
SERA, ECOMMERCE MANAGER
How has internal succession shaped your career journey within the company?
It has given me the belief and confidence in myself to be able to grow and evolve throughout my career. Being able to learn and work with experienced female leaders in my formative years was invaluable.
Looking back, what was a defining moment in your career that propelled you forward?
It's hard to pick one but being part of the Ecommerce team from its infancy and its evolution in short period of time has certainly been very rewarding. There has been lots of blood, sweat, and tears over the years, however, personal growth has been one of the many sweet rewards.
What’s one piece of advice you received during your career that has stayed with you?
Never stop learning, be teachable - no matter how old you are or how long you’ve been in the business for. Learn from those around you, learn from experiences and learn from the industry.
SIOBHAN, LEGAL COUNSEL
What has been the most rewarding part of your succession journey?
From starting as a Retail Assistant to now leading the Legal department at Head Office, my succession journey has been dynamic, challenging, and incredibly fulfilling. The most rewarding part, however, has been witnessing my own growth in confidence. As a young girl, I was shy and often doubted my abilities. Today, I’m a completely different person—one who trusts her skills, makes decisions with conviction, and embraces new challenges. My succession journey at Kookai has played a huge role in shaping who I am today. Little me would be proud.
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to leadership positions?
Always back yourself and say yes to opportunities, even if you feel like you’re not ready. Leadership isn’t about having all the answers or the most experience—it’s about being curious, asking the right questions, and continuously learning. Growth happens outside your comfort zone, so don’t be afraid to take on challenges that push your boundaries.
LIZ, GENERAL MANAGER KATALYST FOUNDATION
What’s one key lesson you’ve learned that has helped you grow as a leader?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of choosing an environment and workplace that aligns with my personal values. Along with that, finding a role that allows me to use skills that come naturally to me has been crucial to my growth and success as a leader. I am a big believer of encouraging others to identify the superpowers that lie within themselves, everybody has them. When you’re in the right environment, doing work that genuinely resonates with you, it not only makes the challenges easier to navigate but also allows you to bring your best self to the role.
The saying “Do what you love” may be a cliché—and sometimes a luxury—but passion is contagious. Being genuinely invested in what you do inspires those around you, and at its core, leadership is about inspiring and empowering others to do their best.
DIMERE, OH&S MANAGERFIJI FACTORY
What’s one way you actively support or inspire the next generation of women leaders within our Fiji Factories?
By mentoring and empowering them to step into leadership with confidence. I make it a priority to share knowledge, provide guidance, and create opportunities for women to take on challenging roles. Whether it’s through coaching, advocating for their growth, training or leading by example, I strive to build a culture where women feel valued, heard, and motivated to excel.