Lauren's journey within Sodexo began in 2018 when she stepped into the administration role at Wickham. "When I started with Sodexo, I had recently moved to Wickham and was eager to find new opportunities that would allow me to grow both personally and professionally," she recalls. Her first role set the stage for a trajectory of growth that would lead her to the position she holds today.  

“During my three years in administration, I had the wonderful chance to immerse myself in various aspects of the business, which was truly eye-opening. My Village Manager at the time played an important role in my development by encouraging cross-department training, and this encouragement was critical for broadening my skill set. It taught in me a strong foundation that not only equipped me with practical skills but also ignited a lasting desire to keep learning and improving in my career,” Lauren reflects. 

The opportunity to transition into a supervisory role came about when her regional manager recognised her potential. “In 2022, I received the exciting offer to step into the role of Administration Supervisor right as Peninsula Palms was preparing to open its doors. This was more than just a job change; it was a remarkable chance to set up the reception from scratch, which allowed me to truly showcase my skills and creativity. I felt a mixture of excitement and responsibility, as I understood that this was an incredible opportunity to make a significant impact,” she shares. This chance, she notes, was not only a professional milestone but also a significant learning experience. 

“When I came to Peninsula Palms, there was literally nothing in place — no guests, no existing operations — so I had to dive in and learn how to establish everything from the ground up. It was both challenging and incredibly rewarding to see how all aspects of the operations came together, like pieces of a puzzle fitting perfectly. Watching everything come to life was an experience I will hold onto forever,” she adds. 

Navigating a predominantly male industry has presented its fair share of challenges for Lauren. “Walking into a room filled with men can be quite intimidating,” she admits, reflecting on her early experiences. “At first, I felt out of place and questioned whether I could truly belong in such an environment. However, as I engaged more with my colleagues, I discovered that beneath their strong presence lay a genuine welcoming spirit. This journey has been instrumental in reshaping my perspective, teaching me that despite the external challenges, we all have the potential to grow together and learn from one another's experiences,” she emphasises. 

Through perseverance and self-reflection, Lauren has developed a stronger voice. “In the beginning, I often doubted my capability to hold a leadership role, thinking, ‘Am I really qualified for this?’ But over time, I came to understand that it’s completely normal to not have all the answers at every moment.” 

“Leadership isn’t about knowing everything; it’s about being open to learning and growing continuously. I’ve embraced the idea that if I make a mistake, it doesn’t diminish my worth or abilities. Instead, it’s an opportunity for me to evolve and become a better version of myself. That realisation has been incredibly empowering,” Lauren shares, demonstrating her deep belief in continuous personal growth and self-acceptance. 

For Lauren, the women she has encountered throughout her career have profoundly influenced her perspective on leadership. “I've been incredibly fortunate to work alongside strong-minded and influential women during my time at Sodexo. One Manager who truly inspired me was Sharon Attwood. She was an absolute ball of energy—her confidence was contagious, and her supportive nature created an environment where I felt empowered to push my own boundaries. She didn’t just encourage me; she ignited a passion within me to reach my full potential. The example she set was not only motivating but also something I aspired to emulate in my own leadership journey,” she explains. 

“I believe in celebrating the incredible contributions of women in our team, as they play a vital role in our collective success. I strive to lead by example, cultivating an environment where every woman feels empowered and supported.” 

“My goal is to help each individual uncover their unique strengths and guide them on their personal journey toward growth and fulfillment. Together, we can navigate challenges and celebrate achievements, recognising the importance of diverse perspectives. This celebration not only honours women's accomplishments but also strengthens our culture of trust and collaboration, paving the way for a brighter future for all.” 

Lauren acknowledges the significant shift within the company, particularly in the coastal region, which is now predominantly led by female managers. “It’s incredibly uplifting to witness so many women stepping into leadership roles. These women don’t just lead—they exemplify the strength, resilience, and confidence that are essential in effective leadership. They are crafting a new narrative that paves the way for others to follow. It reinforces my belief that women are not just capable; they are vital to the progress and innovation in our industry, and they absolutely deserve to be at the forefront of decision-making.” 

As a strong advocate for women in the workplace, Lauren emphasises the importance of initiatives aimed at empowering female colleagues, particularly in the FIFO (Fly-In Fly-Out) sector. “Programs like Building Operational Leadership Talent (BOLT) for our emerging leaders to build effective leadership practices and personal growth and Hindsight Leadership & Resilience Workshop provide essential support and mentoring opportunities,” she elaborates.  

“These programs are not merely tools for skill development; they represent a vital framework that fosters collaboration and learning among female professionals. It’s incredibly important to create a network of encouragement among women across all levels of the organisation. When we share our experiences, challenges, and triumphs, we collectively lift each other up, creating an environment where we can all thrive together in our careers.” 

“Empowering women is not just about giving them tools; it’s about creating a world where they can thrive and lead.” 

In conclusion, Lauren Ellis exemplifies the strength and resilience of women in leadership at Sodexo. Her journey demonstrates that success can be achieved not only through hard work and determination but also through the support of others and a commitment to lifelong learning. As she continues to inspire those around her, Lauren embodies the company's values and reminds us that empowered women empower women.