During Women’s History Month, Inspire celebrates the stories of our corporate and franchise team members, as well as franchisees as we reflect on the significant roles that women have played in shaping American history. Today, we spoke with Kim Landry, who is a Director of Training and has worked on the Jimmy John’s brand for 20 years. She is also a member of Inspire’s Champions of Women Leaders Business Resource Group, which is dedicated to helping members strengthen their leadership skills, utilize networking opportunities and provide resources that support the needs of women in the workplace.

Why is being a member of the Champions of Women Leaders BRG important to you? 

I love being able to mentor and serve as an ally to others and facilitate the development of women into leadership positions. I think it is important for women to see other women in senior leadership or even non-traditional roles so that it inspires others to reach beyond their dreams.

What are your goals as a member of this BRG?

To strengthen the leadership skills of its members, to provide networking opportunities that can put members in touch with key contacts and to provide resources/contacts that support the needs of women in the workplace and to be their ally!

What does Women’s History Month mean to you?

I love celebrating the women who were/are mavericks and visionaries both past and present. It’s a truly exciting time for celebrating women’s history, as we are making history welcoming our first woman VP! We also celebrate within Inspire as there are so many brilliant women in senior leadership roles showing and mentoring us all. From Sarah Mueth – Jimmy John’s COO, Claudia San Pedro – President of Sonic and Melissa Strait our Chief People Officer, learning from them inspires me to grow to the next level.

How are you celebrating women’s achievements? 

On a personal note, I am sharing a variety of achievements with my 12 year old daughter highlighting individuals who have been trailblazers in a variety of fields (politics, sports, civil rights, business, philanthropy, etc.).  On a professional level – bringing women’s achievements to light using the CMI Support Center Insider page and our BRG on Linkedin.

Is there a particular woman in history that has influenced you in either your personal life or career?

Oprah Winfrey – she has broken so many barriers across many platforms, business, socially, physically. She is amazing.

A challenged world is an alert world and from challenge comes change. How can you help forge a gender equal world?

By leading by example, by empowering and being a champion to others. By living our values everyday, being an achiever and maverick to break down stereotypes and being visionaries, allies and good citizens. Not just making room at the table, but forging a better table where all have a shared opportunity to excel. I will continue to be a voice, a champion and advocate for women, both in the workplace and beyond.

Learn more about Inspire’s Champions of Women Leaders BRG on the group’s LinkedIn page. To learn more about career opportunities at Inspire, visit careers.inspirebrands.com.