Interview with Victoria Pelletier, C-Suite Executive

We had the Privilege of interviewing Victoria Pelletier, a 20+ year Corporate Executive, Board Director, #1 selling author and Professional Public Speaker. Nicknamed the “Turn Around Queen” and the “CEO Whisperer” by former colleagues and employers, Victoria inspires and empowers her team and clients to change mindsets and drive growth in business, leadership, and culture.

Interview Highlights

How do you balance your personal life with your responsibilities as a leader, and what strategies do you use to maintain your well-being and ensure you continue to grow as an individual?

I believe in work-life integration rather than balance, recognizing that both aspects of my life enrich each other. My commitment to self-care is non-negotiable; I maintain my well-being by working out six days a week, which sharpens my focus and resilience. This disciplined approach to physical fitness mirrors the dedication I bring to my professional roles, helping me to continuously evolve and thrive in all areas of life.

In your opinion, what are some of the most important qualities a leader should possess, and how have you cultivated these traits within yourself?

The essence of effective leadership is rooted in what I refer to as Whole Human Leadership (I have a book on this coming out in a few months), which prioritizes accountability, authenticity, and vulnerability. Cultivating these traits involves a commitment to transparent communication and an openness to learn from both successes and challenges. Personally, I strive to lead by example, fostering an environment where honesty and empathy guide our collective efforts and drive impactful outcomes.

As a prominent business leader, how do you stay connected to your roots and the values that have shaped your journey, and how do you ensure these remain a part of your leadership approach?

My journey, marked by significant adversity, has instilled a deep sense of resilience and adaptability in me. These experiences have become the bedrock of my leadership, influencing my approach to every challenge and opportunity. By staying true to these values, along with those of Whole Human Leadership, I ensure they permeate our corporate culture, encouraging a steadfast commitment to growth and an unwavering ability to navigate change.

How do you foster a culture of open communication and trust within your teams, and what steps do you take to encourage the growth and development of your colleagues?

To foster a culture of open communication and trust, I emphasize radical candor and empathy in all interactions within my team. This approach encourages honesty and transparency, allowing us to address challenges directly and support each other's growth. I also prioritize continuous learning and feedback, providing opportunities for professional development that empower my colleagues to expand their skills and confidence.

Victoria, lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring leaders who are looking to make their mark in the business world, and how do you encourage them to stay true to their values and vision?

To aspiring leaders, my advice is to remain steadfastly committed to your values and vision, as these will guide your decisions and define your leadership style. Embrace authenticity and lead with integrity—this will not only earn you respect but also inspire those around you. Furthermore, cultivate resilience and adaptability; the path to leadership is often unpredictable, and your ability to navigate changes and setbacks will be crucial to your success.

"As a leader, my journey has been about embracing the unstoppable force within, fueled by authenticity and a commitment to being a whole human leader. I've learned that growth resides in discomfort, and it's in those moments that we truly step into our potential. So, I continue to push boundaries, break molds, and lead with unwavering authenticity, because in the end, it's not just about being a leader, but about being a catalyst for transformative change."

As a prolific motivational and inspirational speaker, Victoria has delivered keynotes discussing the importance of personal branding and its impact on professional growth; being an empathetic leader in empowering employees; the power of DEI on corporate cultures and building a life of resilience. She is a member of Chief, the private network for professional women focused on connecting and supporting executive women. She is on the board of directors of HelpUsAdopt.org and Olive Inc. and a mentor and investor for many women-led business founders. Victoria is a former board member of the Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada and JVS Toronto where she was also an executive committee member. She is a past member of YPO International and Hope where she was a vice chair.