Julie Hauser-Blanner is proud of the glass ceilings she’s broken––and looks forward to breaking more.
This interview with Julie Hauser-Blanner, Senior Vice President of Mexican Sugar/Cocina y Cantina at Front Burner Restaurants, is part of Inspirations, a regular series from Helen Lao and ClearPath that asks extraordinary founders, executives, and rising stars in the growth-oriented food industry about their why.
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Who or what inspires you and why?
I’m inspired by the people I work with. I’m grateful for their grittiness to learn more, to listen, to activate change, and embrace their inner student. I’m inspired by the people who are unapologetically working toward making their industries, their lives, and their relationships better.
What types of people do you work best with and why?
I work best with people who embody humility and are bold enough to believe that, when we all come together, we can make big, important change.
What’s one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced so far and why?
Work-Life balance has persistently been a challenge for me. I love what I do, and I love my family. Devoting time and attention to both in meaningful and impactful ways is something I’m still working to figure out. The only thing that has allowed me to transcend the stress of the imbalance has been giving myself permission to simply not be perfect. As a mother, wife, and leader, I have acknowledged and accepted that I will never get it all right. But my teams--both at home and at work--support me in all the ways I need.
What’s something you’ve worked on that you’re proud of and why?
I’m most proud of breaking through glass ceilings and achieving things that didn’t feel possible for others. I’m also proud of all the talented people I’ve been able to cultivate throughout my career. Working to setup our future industry leaders for success.
What’s been one of your greatest rewards in business and why?
The most rewarding feeling is witnessing my successors succeed; watching people step into roles long after I’ve left them and thrive in a big way.
Looking back, what advice would you give your younger self and why?
Do not be afraid to speak your truth. Know that you have a voice. Know that people want to hear what you have to say.
What's the one word that describes you and why?
Influential. I know that the choices I make have a ripple effect into the work and lives of many people. I embrace that responsibility with passion and excitement.
What’s one company, brand, or individual that you admire and why?
I admire Drew Brees. He’s a light to everyone on his team. He’s a mentor. He’s charitable. He’s a winner.
What is one thing you’d like to accomplish this year and why?
I want to be more present for my family. I want to pour the incredible passion I have for life, people and business back into my son's life and strengthen the bond I have with my husband. I look forward to being challenged on all levels.
What is one book that you think everyone should read and why?
The Anatomy of Peace is an inspiring, thoughtful read about peacemaking in all areas of your life. It offers you a way to accept and reconcile with yourself and others in a profound way.
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About ClearPath
At ClearPath, we value relationships over everything because we know that great people are the secret sauce to success. We serve as ambassadors for growth-oriented brands in the food industry — connecting them with the leaders they need to build their businesses and change the world. Our collaborative, tenacious, and modern approach to talent acquisition empowers us to surface the right candidates — faster.
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