Workplaces saw remarkable improvements towards giving women greater responsibility in otherwise male-dominated industries. This prefigures well for talented, driven females who are looking to succeed with their passion, dedication, and skill sets.
Companies like The Bistro Group believe in how equality and inclusivity are keys to achieving a more diverse and healthier workplace. In its ecosystem, women—from servers to those in the top echelon—are empowered within their scope of responsibilities, enabling them to make sound decisions for the good of the company.
Women on top
Coming from this mindset, Bistro promoted five women—RC Tiongson (chief operating officer for TGIFridays, Denny’s, Bulgogi, Watami, Hard Rock Café, Randy’s Doughnuts, and Olive Garden); Guia Abuel (COO for Italiannis, Texas Roadhouse, El Pollo Loco, Modern Shanghai, Fish & Co, Buffalo Wild Wings Ember, Savage, Helm and Test Kitchen; Patty Joaquin-Publico (chief finance officer); Marilu Rivera (chief people and culture officer); and Lisa Ronquillo-Along (chief marketing officer)—to top executive positions.
For them, climbing the corporate ladder came with its own set of challenges. They worked their way to the top, rose from the ranks, persevered and was rightfully rewarded for their skills, determination, and hard work.
Tiongson was first hired as a “practicumer” in 1998, before becoming a server, management trainee, restaurant manager, general manager and director for operations. After 24 years, she was promoted as COO, handling seven restaurant concepts.
When asked why they chose to stay in Bistro after all these years, these ladies attributed their loyalty to the unique corporate culture as the company encourages empowerment regardless of gender and rewards good performance.
They have harnessed their strengths as women as the company recognizes each employee’s abilities and contributions. Another factor that ‘sealed’ the deal for them is that company values are aligned with theirs—which basically is about service, giving their best every day. This is ingrained in Bistro’s people-focused philosophy.
They say that at The Bistro Group, teamwork is strong, with a feeling of belongingness because everyone does not back down on work, even the bosses. This is apparent in the way the company cultivates a supportive working environment that lets people shine, no matter the position. It is a dynamic and innovative organization that makes work very exciting. Small wonder why these women believe that they belong in The Bistro Group
EmpowHER
Encouraging and valuing women, promoting them to leadership roles alongside their male counterparts, is showcasing different styles of leadership in the organization. Women don’t have to adopt masculine behaviors to be successful, as they have the same empathy, confidence, plus their intuition that could drive the company to its ultimate growth.
