Craveable Brands celebrate the women in their business. Photo by Daniel Wilkins/The Photo Pitch
Franchise manager Leisha Fontana is a happy, positive and energetic business leader.
Chasing adventure – and love – Leisha travelled to Switzerland at 19. There, she learned to speak fluent French before beginning her career as a secretary. It’s a move she believes set her up for the rest of her career. One of Leisha’s first bosses in Switzerland was her inspiration as she navigated her own career progression. “This lady started out as a secretary and worked her way up to director level through hard work and determination,” says Leisha. “It showed me that you didn’t need a university degree, or to be a man, to achieve these sorts of roles.”
Leisha joined Craveable Brands in 2013 as an Executive Assistant and after 18 months commenced her role as Franchise Manager. She now covers Western Australia, Victoria, South Australia and the Northern Territory.
Leisha credits her success to asking questions and continually striving for growth. “I have always been good at digging to find out information. I’ve never been afraid to ask questions. I love to learn and it makes me better at my job.”
As a leader, Leisha believes that no task should be too big or small. “Great leaders empower and advocate for their team,” says Leisha. “We should all be championing each other, especially women, for their achievements. Sometimes a simple pat on the back goes a long way and drives positivity.”
Leisha believes that the business world is changing for women. “You might have had to fight harder back in the day but things have changed a lot in the last 10 years.”
For those early in their careers, Leisha advises going above and beyond. “If you work hard, go the extra mile and never say ‘it is not my job’, you will do very well.” Anyone planning on stepping up into leadership, she says: “Be fearless and back yourself.”