Resilience, Reinvention, and Leadership Grounded in Humanity

Flo Lugli’s remarkable journey, from People Express to leading global technology, distribution, and commercial transformation, reveals a leader defined by courage, humility, and deep humanity. Entering travel by accident, she learned early to embrace rapid change, master multiple functions, and navigate disruption with confidence. Her leap into hospitality at Howard Johnson, followed by decades of growth through massive acquisitions, reshaped her expertise across sales, marketing, distribution, and technology. Flo credits champions who believed in her before she believed in herself, pushing her into leadership moments she never imagined.

Her willingness to take risks, embrace uncomfortable opportunities, and learn through adversity shaped a powerful leadership philosophy: treat people with respect, give before you get, and never underestimate the impact of how you make others feel. Flo speaks candidly about career setbacks, reinvention, and the bold choice to leave corporate life and build her own advisory firm, a decision that tested and proved the strength of her relationships and reputation.

Her reflections inspire listeners to build meaningful networks, stay open to change, and understand that attitude, integrity, and humanity are the anchors that carry leaders through every chapter.

Notable Quotes/Highlights

• "People will forget what you said… but they'll never forget how you made them feel."
• "You have to give in order to get."
• "Your network can be the single biggest asset you have."
• "Everything works out for the best if you stay open to it."
• "What we do is not who we are."

Closing Reflection

Flo Lugli’s story reminds us that great leadership is built through courage, generosity, and the willingness to keep growing. Her journey empowers every professional to embrace change, lead with empathy, and step boldly into opportunities that shape a meaningful life and career.