Conversations on Resilient Leadership

#4 - I Fired My Best Friend - Jacquelyn Gernaey

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In this engaging episode of Conversations on Resilient Leadership, host Jim de Vries sits down with Jackie Gernaey, CEO of Seven Star HR, to explore her remarkable journey from hospital microbiologist to pioneering business leader. Jackie shares candid stories of pivotal career moments - from boldly asking for a job that changed her trajectory to making the tough decision to sell her own division.

Episode Highlights:

  • How a complaint call about a faulty product led to an unexpected career opportunity
  • The challenging decision to fire a close friend who hit her with a purse
  • Why she chose to sell her division rather than meet unrealistic profit targets
  • Her innovative approach to employee training using a three-column system: "They watch us, we watch them, they're checked out"
  • The birth of Seven Star HR from a client's memorable comment: "I want you to catch the fish, fry it in a pan and feed it to me"
  • Insights on why hiring slows during election years and how political uncertainty affects business planning
  • Why marketing aggressively during economic downturns can be a winning strategy


    • With decades of leadership experience, Jackie offers invaluable insights on building effective teams, knowing when to delegate, and navigating challenging business decisions.

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    Conversations on Resilient LeadershipBy Jim de Vries