Dr. Ausanee Mahagitsiri Leonio, the President of KFU Company Limited, is at the forefront of leadership and innovation in Thailand’s highly competitive baked goods and coffee sector. With a rich legacy of experience and a deep passion for social responsibility, Dr. Ausanee has led KFU to become an industry leader, setting new standards in both business excellence and corporate social responsibility (CSR).
Born in Bangkok, Dr. Ausanee's journey to becoming a distinguished leader began with a solid foundation in education. She holds multiple degrees, including a Doctorate of Business Administration, which equipped her with a profound understanding of business operations and strategic leadership. She also credits her hands-on experience as integral to her growth. This marriage of academic knowledge and practical experience has shaped her take on leadership, one that emphasises collaboration, empathy, and adaptability.
Under her stewardship, KFU has achieved significant milestones. The company, known for managing beloved brands like Krispy Kreme, Cinnabon, and Pie Face, has experienced remarkable growth, marked by grand openings and expansions across Thailand. Product innovation has also been their hallmark, consistently delivering products that captivate a diverse range of customers. These successes are further complemented by customer satisfaction awards, reflecting the company's commitment to also deliver exceptional experiences.
One of the defining aspects of Dr. Ausanee’s leadership is her dedication to CSR initiatives, which are deeply embedded in the company’s values and mission. The company actively participates in community development and adheres to ethical business practices, ensuring that its operations contribute positively to society. Dr. Ausanee believes that success is not solely defined by financial achievements but by the ability to balance personal, family, and societal commitments. Her emphasis on CSR distinguishes KFU from its competitors, creating holistic value for its customers, employees, and the broader community.
The journey to success, however, has not been without challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant hurdles, particularly with store closures and the shift to remote work. For Dr. Ausanee, this period tested her leadership in unprecedented ways, demanding quick, strategic decisions to keep the business afloat. Navigating these challenges required resilience, adaptability, and calmness under pressure—traits that have become hallmarks of her leadership style. Through these experiences, she emerged as a stronger leader, capable of guiding her company through adversity with poise and innovation.
With a growing team of approximately 677 employees, Dr. Ausanee fosters a work environment that prioritises employee well-being and professional development. KFU offers comprehensive learning and development programs, covering essential areas such as food safety, beverage preparation, customer service, and production. These programs not only enhance employee skills but also align with the company’s dedication to quality and excellence. Dr. Ausanee's leadership style is collaborative and empowering, encouraging her team to contribute their ideas while supporting their growth.
Her leadership approach is deeply influenced by her role models, particularly her parents. She learned the values of hard work, integrity, and the importance of balancing professional and personal life from them. Her father, in particular, served as a key inspiration, demonstrating how business success can coexist with strong family commitments. These lessons have shaped her own leadership philosophy, which prioritises business achievements and the well-being of her team and community.
Dr. Ausanee's success as a leader is rooted in her ability to inspire and empower those around her. She believes that good leadership is not just about making decisions but about facilitating the success of others. Over the decades, she has witnessed the evolution of leadership—from a model where leaders were seen as sole decision-makers to one where they are facilitators and mentors, guiding their teams toward shared success.
Winning the ACES Award for being acknowledged amongst Outstanding Leaders in Asia is a testament to Dr. Ausanee's persistence in excellence and sustainability in business practices. For her, this recognition does not only validate the efforts of KFU but also serves as a platform to inspire others in the business community to embrace CSR and sustainable practices. Through her leadership, Dr. Ausanee continues to drive KFU to new heights, proving that business success and social responsibility can go hand in hand.
