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pinky cole
Why Hiring the Right Executive Team Is a Smart, Strategic Move
WendyY Bailey
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Recently, Pinky Cole, CEO/Founder of Slutty Vegan, made a bold and thoughtful decision. She hired two key executives to help lead her business into its next chapter, including Lauren Maillian as President.
This wasn’t about stepping away. It was about stepping into her true CEO role with intention.
At a certain point in business, growth gets complicated. Things start moving fast, and the responsibilities multiply. For CEO/Founders, it can feel like you’re holding everything together with sheer willpower.
That’s exactly why building the right executive team matters. It’s not a luxury. It’s a lifeline.
What Pinky Cole's Move Teaches Us
- Self-awareness creates space for growth
It takes confidence to say, “I don’t need to do it all.” Pinky’s decision shows what it looks like when a CEO/Founder understands her role as visionary—and is ready to hand over the reins on execution to someone just as capable.
- Strong operations drive sustainable scale
Whether you’re opening new locations, managing complex logistics, or protecting your brand reputation, operational leadership is a non-negotiable. That kind of scale requires structure.
- Slowing down to stabilize is wise
Reports show that Slutty Vegan hit pause on its expansion plans to regroup and get the back end of the business in order. That kind of clarity takes discipline and foresight. It’s how businesses stay ready for the long game.
- The right leadership builds stronger companies
By creating an executive team aligned with her values and vision, Pinky is setting her business up for impact beyond just numbers. Diverse, aligned leadership leads to better decisions and deeper resilience.
- Leadership doesn’t have to be lonely
Every CEO/Founder needs a strong bench. Having trusted leaders in key roles doesn’t mean losing control. It means gaining support that allows you to lead with greater confidence and focus.
What This Means for Other Businesses - Like Yours
If you’re the CEO/Founder of a seven-figure business, and you’re still the glue holding everything together, it may be time to ask a different question.
Not “Can I keep managing it all?”
But “Who do I need around me to take this further?”
Growth doesn’t just require more hands. It calls for experienced minds, clear systems, and a team that can lead beside you—not just follow your lead.
What about you?
If you’re scaling and thinking through your next leadership hires, what role would bring the most relief, alignment, or momentum right now? Share your thoughts in the comments.
